Year: 2022

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

10/18/2022 at 6:30 pm, North Star Hall              

CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME, AND PLEDGE OF ALLGIANCE –   DICK, 6:30 pm

ATTENDING – Supervisors Dick Dillon, Gary Mantay, Janet Keough, Treasurer Donna Elsbury, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes, Clerk Mary Hellman, and FD Asst. Chief Gary Mantay. Guests: Sue Forbragd, Denise Anderson. 

SEPT 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Motion to accept with corrections by Dick, second by Gary. Vote: All ayes. 

 FINANCIAL REPORT

REVIEW AND APROVE SETEMBER 2022 PAYROLL AND CLAIMS –Motion by Jan to accept payroll and claims.  Second by Dick. Vote: Gary – aye, Dick -aye. Jan – aye.

TRANSFER – DONNA  

Transfer – Donna reported the Transfer amount of  $2103.50 for checks__#8458 – 8466 ,      EFT PERA AMOUNT OF $_54.00_, and EFT IRS/3^rd QTR $868.21. Checkbookbalance – $300.00

TREASURER COMMENTS – DONNA, none at this time.

CLERK COMMENTS – MARY

• Clerk reports there is a training offered by MATT on Nov. 2^nd, 2022 at Ellsburg Town Hall (Melrude), regarding End of the year procedures for clerks and treasurers, including: balancing books, W-2’s, 1099NEC, and State Auditor Report.  Dick made a motion to have the treasurer and clerk to attend this.  Gary seconded this. Vote: Dick – ayes, Gary – aye, Jan – aye. 

CORRESPONDENCE –

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Gary reported there was one medical call this month.  There will be an accident practice with setting up vehicle/signage for an accident training on Oct. 19^th  at the hall.

MAINTENANCE – Dick reported purchasing the stopper for the women’s washroom door and will be installing it.  Upcoming snow plowing for the hall and recycling area will be done by Jimmy Taft; Dick Dillon will fill in if needed. Reminder to Jimmy to not leave a wind row in front of propane tank.

RECYCLING – Jan reported there is nothing new, all is going well.

WEBPAGE / E-NEWS COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan reported she will be finishing the eNewsletter soon.  She will add information about the new “No Littering Sign” on Hwy 44/Barrs Lake Rd, and Notary access, etc.  Gary also requested a call out for more Fire Fighters/EMS or tech help for the Fire Department.

ROADS – Gary reported that the township road was graded. 

• The township received a note from the county that the township road needed brushing per the contract.  Gary checked the road and reported it was recently brushed.  He has a call out to Kelly at the county clear this up.

OLD BUSINESS –

WEEDS – Ray gave a weed report which included an update of new invasive species in our township.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

SHORT TERM RENTALS – Denise Anderson has questions about process of having Short Term Rentals in our Township.  Discussion included:

Need to create a Citizens Committee from township residents. No more than 4 people.  Representatives from both Barrs and Briar Lakes.

Ordinance vs. Moratorium? Township vote on a ballot, or show by hand?

Denise talked with Don Rigney.

What is goal of our township regarding the STR?? Limit or do away with?

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Jan will be finishing the Enews updates.  Dick will be fixing the door stopper on women’s washroom.  Mary to check with St. Louis Co. regarding the process to use when receiving write in ballots at the General Election.

UPCOMING EVENTS – General Election on Nov.8, 2022 at Hall

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – November 15, 2022 AT 6:30 PM AT NS HALL

ADJOURNMENT – There was a motion to adjourn the board meeting at 7:40pm by Jan, seconded by Gary. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

09/20/2022          

CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME, AND PLEDGE OF ALLGIANCE –   DICK

ATTENDING – Supervisors Dick Dillon, Gary Mantay, Treasurer Donna Elsbury, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes, Clerk Mary Hellman, FD Asst. Chief Gary Mantay, Guests: Sue and Marvin Forbragd, Linda Britton.  Supervisor Jan Keough absent.

AUG 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Motion to accept with corrections by Dick, second by Gary, all ayes.

 FINANCIAL REPORT

September 2022 Financial Report

REVIEW AND APROVE AUG 2022 PAYROLL AND CLAIMS –Motion by Gary to accept payroll and claims. (No transfer this month.) Second by Dick. Vote: Gary – aye, Dick -aye. No nays.

TRANSFER – DONNA  

Transfer – Donna reported the Transfer amount of  $0 -none needed as there is still enough  for checks__#8444   – 8457       , and EFT PERA AMOUNT OF $_54.00__________.

TREASURER COMMENTS – DONNA, none at this time.

CLERK COMMENTS – MARY

• SLC Snow Plowing Contract with North Star has been completed
• No Littering Sign Ordered, arrived, and will be hung on the sign at Hwy 44.
• Hall, tables and chairs were used in August by residents.  Everything returned?
• Notary Service is available by the clerk.
• Upcoming General Election judges were voted in for the next election: Ray Barnes, Sue Forbragd, Bob Anderson, Anne Bailey.

Motion to accept by Dick, second by Gary, all ayes.  More Training to be available per Ray.

CORRESPONDENCE –

Donna stated that we received a bill for our website domain. Will ask Jan if this is the same company or other one wanting business.

Also, the St. Louis County Final Town Levy Report is complete for 2022.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Gary reported there was one medical call this month.  There will be a moc accident practice training on Sept. 28^th at the hall.

MAINTENANCE – Dick said the Generator repair was completed: a switch was changed, oil/battery heater was added and the oil was changed. Also, the lawn mowing is covered through end of season.

RECYCLING – Jan, nothing noted (as she is on vacation).

WEBPAGE / E-NEWS COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – nothing noted

ROADS – Gary reported that the township road was graded.

OLD BUSINESS – Water Testing Event – Bruce Olsen officiated event and was pleased with turnout, 37 people brought in samples.   He stated we may want to offer another event next year.

NEW BUSINESS –

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Gary and Dick to hang new sign.

UPCOMING EVENTS – General Election on Nov.8, 2022 at Hall

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – Oct. 18, 2022 AT 6:30 PM AT NS HALL

ADJOURNMENT – There was a motion to adjourn the board meeting at 6:55 by Gary, seconded by Dick. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

Date- 8/19/2022

CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE – Dick at 6:30pm

ATTENDENCE – Supervisors Dick, Gary, Jan, Treasurer Donna, Deputy Treasurer Ray, Clerk Mary, Fire Chief Rory

Guest: Linda B.

JULY 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Jan made the motion to accept the July 2022 Board Meeting Minutes as amended, Gary seconded. All ayes.

REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF PAYROLL AND CLAIMS –Jan made the motion to accept the Payroll and Claims, Dick seconded. Vote: Jan – aye, Gary – aye, Dick – Aye.

FINANCIAL REPORT

August 2022 Financial Report

TRANSFER – Donna

The Transfer amount of __$0__ (as no transfer needed as there is over $9000 in the checking account).  There was $5653.09 written for checks #_8419-_8443_.   Check #8421 was voided, and the PERA EFT amount was __$56.76_.

TREASURER COMMENTS – Donna

Summary reports revised for February, March, April, June, and July and match cash control statement numbers. Updated copies on webpage. 

Jan asked about increased February spending. Donna reported MATIT, PAYROLL (double payroll coverage due to clerk and treasurer training), and County dues. Also, a TRANSFER TO ARPA as these funds need a separate account. This will be shown in the summary report and foot-noted.

CLERK COMMENTS- Mary

• Election Wrap Up – Primary went well on Aug. 9, 2022. North Star TWP had 66 votes.

Ray headed up testing on new ballot counting machine DS200. The only question he had was Ray would like to know where we are to cut the tape.  The voting box was returned to SLC in a timely manner. 

• There are currently 6 active election judges. We also have a request from a community member who is interested in being an election judge.  We will invited her to the next training.
• New Flag pole with eagle topper in place.
• Tables and chairs are being requested for residential use. Reminder that no white tables can be taken out.

CORRESPONDENCE –

FIRE DEPARTMENT –Rory

• The Fire Department had two EMS calls, and they trained on the pump this month.
• A brush pile burn is planned for the fall, depending on weather.
• FD PERA retirements will be discussed early next year also, which will take town board backing. That would be the time if there would be any raises considered.  It has been over 10 years since the last one.  The Accounting Officer Rory has spoken about this is Sharon North.

MAINTENANCE – Dick stated there is an issue with the generator. He will call to have someone come look at it for repairs. We need to keep it shoveled out and accessible to the fuel tank by it.  Remind Jimmy to not make a big bank in front of the area as possible. 

RECYCLING –Jan reported that there is nothing new for recycling, it is going well.

ROADS –Gary, culvert will be replaced, road graded by Rory

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan, website is doing well.

NEW BUSINESS – none

OLD BUSINESS – The No Garbage sign was torn down 4 days after it was up on the large Briar/Barrs Lake Rd sign.  Gary motioned to have a “No Littering… $400 penalty” sign from St. Louis Co. posted.  Jan seconded motion. Vote: Dick- aye; Gary- aye; Jan- aye. Ask SLC / Kelly 720-1508.  Clerk to call for information and cost.

No New Business.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Generator call/Dick, No Littering sign from SLC/Clerk and f/u on table use.

UPCOMING EVENTS – Water test, Thursday Sept 1^st, 2022, 11am-6pm., for North Star Township residents at the hall.  Clerk or Supervisor to have hall door open for their team.

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – Tuesday, September 20th, 2022 at 6:30 p.m., NS Hall

ADJOURNMENT –   Jan, Gary at 7:10 pm. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

Date- 7/19/2022

ATTENDING – Supervisors: Richard Dillon, Jan Keough, Gary Mantay, Treasurer: Donna Elsbury, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes, Clerk: Mary Hellman, Fire Chief Rory Blazevik

Guests: Bruce Olsen

CALL TO ORDER- Dick

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – All Present recited to Pledge to the Flag

JUNE 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Gary made a motion to accept the June 2022 Board Meeting Minutes as read; Dick seconded.  All ayes.

REVIEW AND APPROVE PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Jan made a motion to accept the payroll and claims. Gary seconded the motion. Vote: Jan – aye, Gary -aye, Dick – aye.

TRANSFER – Donna reported the ARPA Transfer amount of $10,600.37

for checks #8407-8418.   EFTs / PERA – $56.76, IRS -$896.86.

FINANCIAL REPORT

July 2022 Financial Report

TREASURER COMMENTS –

• MATIT- Donna reported communication from MATIT stated that they will be using an “in-house server” with changes in software for efficiency in submitting claim changes. 
• Mileage Increase- the amount for government travel costs has been increased to 62.5 cents per mile.  Dick made a motion for the township to accept the new amount recommended by the state.  Jan seconded. Vote: Dick – aye, Jan – aye, Gary -aye.
• Junk left on the Corner of Barrs/Briar Lk/Hwy 44 – this seems to be an on-going problem.  It looks terrible and is not being thrown away by the people who leave it there.  The board discussed placing a sign there stating Do Not Leave Garbage or Junk Here.  Dick made a motion to have this done and Gary seconded.  Vote: All ayes. Clerk to follow through.

CLERK COMMENTS-

PRIMARY ELECTION UPDATE:  Mary and Sue to attend continued Clerk/Head Judge Training on Wednesday, 7/20/22. Email Communication from St. Louis County included an Election Judge Video and Ballot Machine Instructional Video which were forwarded to all Judges.  There will be a training at North Star Hall on July 28^th at 1:00 pm to review the SLC video info and also get ready for the Public Accuracy Test on Monday, Aug. 1^st at 1:00 pm.  This Test Info has been published in the DNT as required. Judges are asked to be present to have a hands-on learning session for the real Primary.

CORRESPONDENCE – The Spring Lake Association has requested to use the Hall on Sept. 3 for a meeting.  Pam Stocco will let us know what time.  No other requests have been made to use the hall at that time. Clerk to record on calendar and arrange to have door open.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Rory reported that it has been an unusually quiet year for the NSFD.  They were declined for the CLP grant.  Rory stated that they will still be using ARPA funds to purchase firefighting equipment, such as outfitting the firefighters with SCBAs and radios. This fall the FD will check the fire hydrant in our township.

MAINTENANCE – Dick reported that he and Gary will check the generator as it has been malfunctioning.  They do not know what the problem is yet.  The women’s bathroom door stopper is not holding the door and may need to be replaced.   

RECYCLING – The recycling grant check has arrived. Jan reported there was a surplus of cardboard after the 4^th of July.  The sign on Hwy 44 needs to have the recycling time corrected to “9 – 12” instead of “9 – 2”.  Dick will correct.

ROADS – Gary stated that the township road will be graded this fall.  Rory added that he could do one more light grading before the main on in the fall to help maintain it.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan completed write-ups for the Enewsletter and Carrie put it online right after the 4^th of July.  Jan and Donna worked together to get the financial report posted on the website with each month’s board minutes.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

Citizens from Barrs Lake expressed concern about the use of lake properties for vacation rentals, Air B&B, etc. and Aquatic Invasive Species being brought in from these rental units’ boats, etc.  How can this be controlled?

The best place to start is the St. Louis County Planning and Zoning webpage and look under the Maps tab to see how areas are Zoned.

Then the clerk followed up on this by calling St. Louis County Planning and Zoning and talked with Donald Rigney, staff member.  He stated that a complaint form can be submitted to that office regarding problems.  He also said that the Rental Owners must have a “guest booklet” with information regarding local AI Species and how to avoid spreading them.

2 maps were provided regarding the Barrs Lake area and it shows 1) that on Barrs Lake, there are both Shoreland Mixed Use 7, and Residential 5, both of which can have rentals on them. 2) and that the Town of North Star Area is Administered by St. Louis County.

Donald welcomed questions from any residents and gave his email:

rigney@saintlouiscountymn.gov

WEED INSPECTOR – Ray brought a report to pass on to Tim regarding Ground Truthing for weed reports from our area and others.  It would be helpful to have clearer pictures.

WELL WATER TESTING – Bruce Olsen came to the board meeting to answer any questions about the Free Well Water Testing to be done at NS Hall on Sept 1, 2022.  He said that he would expect about 30-40 people to come from our Township.  He has testers lined up for that date.

NEW BUSINESS –. 

REVIEW OF DUTIES – This information that needs to be put in eNewsletter:  Zoning and Land Use, Air B&B’s;Invasive Aquatic Species control and St. Louis County Contact: Donald Rigney. 

UPCOMING EVENTS –

Public Accuracy Test for DS200 Ballot Machine, Auto-mark Machine at North Star Hall – Aug. 1^st at 1pm

Primary Election – August 9, 2022.  Poll open at Town of North Star Hall from 7 am – 8 pm.  

Free Well Water Testing Clinic for NS Property Owners – Thursday, Sept. 1^st from 1 – 6 pm

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – August16, 2022 at 6:30 p.m., NS Hall

ADJOURNMENT – at 7:30 pm.

Motion to Adjourn by Gary, seconded by Dick. All ayes.

Respectfully Submitted,

Mary Hellman, clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

Date- June 21, 2022

CALL TO ORDER- Dick Dillon called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE- All in attendance recited the Pledge

ATTENDING – Supervisors Dick Dillon and Gary Mantay. Treasurer Donna Elsbury, Clerk Mary Hellman, Fire Chief Rory Blazevic, Ray Barnes, visitors Bruce Olsen, Katherine Mongan-Rallis, Denise Anderson.  Absent: Supervisor Jan Keough/vacation.

MAY 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Gary motioned to accept the May 2022 minutes with correction. Dick seconded. All ayes.

REVIEW AND APPROVE PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Gary motioned to accept the payroll and claims.  Dick seconded. Gary – aye. Dick -aye.

TRANSFER –

No transfer needed for checks, due to other deposits from WLSSD grant and fire department donations per Donna, treasurer.  All were covered.

The  EFT #060122 amount for  PERA was _$108.00_.

FINANCIAL REPORT

June 2022 Financial Report

CLERK/TREASURER COMMENTS –

Clerk – Mary

• Jan Keough is on vacation and will be absent from this meeting.
• Election Update – Mary H. and Sue F. attended Clerk and Administration Training on June 9^th

Current Judges and 3 new Judges to be trained on new SLC Election Judge and Ballot Machine Operation videos on-line as available. Cost is $11/person to access videos. Mary requested board to allow the Election Judges to have access to these videos.  Dick made a motion to allow election judges to have access to training videos at this cost.  Gary seconded.  Vote: Dick -aye, Gary – aye.

Treasurer – Donna

• ARPA

Donna addressed the ARPA request for all recipients to provide reports on funds. The system was delayed and difficult to access. Donna got access to the site through MATT and was able to sign for: 1) NEU award report, 2) Title 5 Insurance, and 3) 2019 Budget.

• Donna completed the State of MN Census questionnaire and provided them with the current info for the time frame requested.

CORRESPONDENCE –

The Propane from Superior Fuel was discussed. The offer was $1.849/gal for fixed price up to 6000 gal. Starting date: 7/1/2022. Ending date: 6/30/2025.

Dick motioned to accept this contract and rates.  Gary seconded. Vote: Dick – aye, Gary – aye. Vote:  All ayes.

This offer was discussed by the board, and they were not interested in it this year.

•  Chronic Wasting Disease Email – anyone interested can attend a public hearing on July 14^th at 9:00am at the Virginia Government Services Center. No interest shown at this time.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Rory Blazevic, Chief

• Pancake Breakfast = The Pancake Breakfast was a great success!  Rory wanted to thank all those who helped and those who came to enjoy the food and support the Fire Department.
• 195 people ate breakfast (adults and children), +donations.

Total monies brought in minus expenses = $1382.00

MAINTENANCE – Dick

• Furnace not working well. General Heating came and found faulty ignitor.
• Indoor flag pole in poor shape. Topper broken, clerk to find replacement topper.
• Town is in need of a person to mow the lawn.  Gary reported that Ken Rovenko was interested.  Dick made a motion that Ken R. do the job at the rate of $18.00/hr.

Gary seconded. Vote: Gary – aye, Dick – aye. Gary will follow up with Ken.

RECYCLING – reported by Mary for Jan

• WLSSD Grant Funds check received for amount of $4885.78.
• a young bear (caught on the cameras) broke into the back of one of the recycling dumpsters by pulling off a heavy plastic access door and pulled out a mess of stuff.  Bill Taft was able to put the access door back on.  WLSSD and Waste Management has been informed.  Someone dumped a couple of cardboard boxes between the dumpsters, with a new grass catcher for a mower in a box, but Ray hasn’t yet been able to get a good picture of the culprit.

ROADS – Gary Mantay

• Township Rd was graded by Rory. It looks good.
• Gary will be measuring for a new culvert that needs replacing on the East side of Briar Lake.
• The re-sealing of the town hall/FD parking lot discussed. It will be done next year – 2023.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – reported by Mary for Jan

• Helen Mongan-Rallis has offered to set up a Facebook group page (closed to anyone outside North Star) as a way to help communicate among residents and seasonals.

Item tabled until next meeting.  Discussion followed. Tabled.

• E-news email to go out after July 4^th.  Any ideas for topics such as: Pancake breakfast participants, money brought in, etc.  Also, Primary Election information – judges, training. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

• Bruce Olsen attended meeting to suggest holding the Free Private Well Water Testing Clinic, on Sept. 1^st, 2022 at North Star Hall, from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm.

Discussion of this by board proved it to be a good date as the hall was not reserved. Advertising for this will include posting it in the Enewsletter and the Website.  This will be only open to North Star Township residents.

• Board reviewed updated Weed Inspector Contract.  Dick motioned to accept the updated Weed Inspector Contract, Gary seconded. Vote – All ayes.  Tim Walters to review and also sign if in agreement. Clerk to follow up.

NEW BUSINESS –

• Citizens concerned about Barrs Lake properties used for vacation rentals, and Invasive Species brought in from boats launched from those properties.  Clerk to follow-up.

REVIEW OF DUTIES –

• Gary to get gas for lawn mowing at the hall and follow up with Ken.
• Dick to check into generator maintenance
• Mary to follow up with Tim on Weed inspector contract, other info for plant identification from DP

UPCOMING EVENTS –

• Primary Election August 9, 2022
• Free Private Well Water Testing Clinic, on Sept. 1^st, 2022 at North Star Hall, from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm. Open to North Star Township property owners.

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – July 19, 2022 at 6:30 pm at North Star Town Hall

ADJOURNMENT – Gary motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:40 pm. Dick seconded. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

May 2022 Board Meeting Minutes

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

Date- 5/17/22

CALL TO ORDER- Dick Dillon

ATTENDING – Supervisors: Dick Dillon, Jan Keough, Gary Mantay, Clerk Mary Hellman, FD Chief Rory Blazevic, Bruce Olsen

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – All attending recited the Pledge

APRIL 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL –

Thank you, Carrie Landman/ Deputy Clerk for standing in for Mary in her absence and completing the April minutes. Dick made a motion to accept the April board meeting minutes, Gary seconded. Vote: All ayes.

TRANSFER – Donna reported via phone call (as both she and Deputy Ray Barnes could not be at the meeting) reported the Transfer amount of $3136.39 was for checks #8380-8392 and EFT/PERA #050122 /$27.00.

FINANCIAL REPORT

May 2022 Financial Report

CLERK/TREASURER COMMENTS –

Clerk – Voting Machines (Watermark and DS200) were dropped off at the SLC Court House for updating in April by Gary and Jan.  Dick, Gary and Mary picked them up when they were finished.

Election clerk training will be held in Duluth on June 9th per Jon Blevins, Elections Information Specialist in SLC.

LBAE Meeting follow up. Meeting was held May 10 at 5 – 6 pm at the North Star Town Hall. Two assessors came from St. Louis County to hold the meeting. One person came to ask questions but did not make an appeal.  One couple had talked with the SLC Assessor’s Office and made an appeal over the phone which was brought to our board at this meeting by the attending assessors.  The Board voted to accept the appeal request. A letter will be sent by the clerk to this party.

CORRESPONDENCE –

Email from Dewey Johnson, Emergency Operations Manager in SLC regarding reporting any flooding issues with damage to road(s) in the township. Gary, Road Supervisor stated North Star Township did not have any issues to report. Clerk passed this on to Dewey.

EMAIL –Linda Britton sent an email to say she thought North Star was doing a “great job”

with their Enewsletter. Carrie Landman and Jan have been getting this communication out to the community.

EMAIL regarding “Help with Pollinator-friendly Yards”. Native plant and seed mix orders are being taken now until June 3^rd at  https://carltonswcd.org/.  This is available to all interested parties.  Curbside pickup is scheduled for June 16^th and June 17^th.  Contact is Lori Seele, 218-393-9581 with other questions. This should go into our e-newsletter next year so residents can have more time to plan for their gardens.

EMAIL regarding Abstract for T-70307 Germain to Maxim 7590 Barrs Lake Road.  See Levied and Pending Assessment Report available. Supervisors stated that North Star does not receive these records and that the clerk shall refer this to St. Louis County Planning Department or Assessors.

EMAIL from Ray Barnes regarding new updated information on Weed Inspector from MN State.

A contract for the Weed Inspector is being drawn up by the board and will be reviewed for township use per Jan.

FIRE DEPARTMENT/EMS – Rory Blazevic, Fire Chief

It is getting very dry out there! There were no calls for FD/EMS last month. There will be a training on Wednesday evening at the Hall and another in TH to train for securing electric cars that are in accidents. Rory stated that the equipment numbers and vehicle vin #’s have been updated with the DNR so they can be recorded if those are used on runs. The Pancake Breakfast is coming soon on the 29^th of May. Supplies have been arranged for. There is a meeting to set up the hall on Saturday at 5pm. More help is needed to wait tables, cook, and cleanup.  

Lastly, Rory brought a statement that needed payment of $1050.00 for EMR. Dick made a motion that this claim is covered next month, Jan seconded. Vote: all ayes. It will go into the June’s monthly payments and expenses. 

MAINTENANCE – Dick Dillon reported that a new board for posting Township Business was hung on the recycling shed by Gary and Dick. 

RECYCLING – Jan Keough The WLSSD Grant for the North Star Township Recycling Site Operations in 2022 has been approved in the amount of $5125.22, but due to deduction of heater in recycling building and adding available surplus amount, it will be $4885.78.) After signed letter is returned to their office, they will send a check to North Star.

ROADS – Gary Mantay – The high winds have knocked down some trees on the road which were cleared. Rory Blazevic graded the gravel roads once, and plans to do more. Frost is still heaving roads in some areas. Gravel and ditching may be needed in some areas.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan reminded clerk to post minutes from last month on Website as she was not at meeting due to travel.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – North Star Township “Contacts Sign” for bulletin board needs updating. Clerk to make new signs with Board Member’s phone numbers and the NS Town Website address so that community members can find the access to leave a written message.

NEW BUSINESS – Bruce Olsen came to give a presentation/proposal to the Board regarding Private Well Water Testing Clinic at North Star Hall.  Well received and the Board feels it would be a benefit to our community. The date will probably be around Labor Day. Bruce will get back to us with more information.  We can advertise in the E-newsletter, Website, and Signs on boards. For more info on wells, go to: https://www.health.state.mn Minnesota Well Index.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – A contract for the Weed Inspector is being drawn up by the board and will be reviewed for township use, per Jan.  

UPCOMING EVENTS – Pancake Breakfast at North Star Hall on Sunday, May 29^th, 2022, from 8 am to noon.  ***Also, books will be given away from our library to thin it out.

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – June 21^st, 2022 at North Star Town Hall.

Jan stated she will be out of town for the June meeting.       

ADJOURNMENT – Jan Keough made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Gary seconded this. Vote: all ayes.

Respectively submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

Date-4/19/2022

CALL TO ORDER- Carrie Landman

ATTENDING – Gary Mantay, Jan Keough, Donne Elsbury, Carrie Landman (acting clerk)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – All present recited the pledge

MARCH 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Gary makes a motion to approve the minutes, Jan seconds the motion.  Vote: All ayes.

MARCH RE-ORG MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Correction made to Donna Elsbury’s name under banking/credit union. Gary makes a motion to approve, Jan seconds the motion.  All aye.

REVIEW AND APPROVE PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Richard makes a motion to approve the payroll and claims. All ayes.

TRANSFER – Gary makes a motion to approve, Jan seconds.  All ayes.

 Donna will transfer $5566.00 into the checking account to cover the approved payroll and claims for April 2022.

Additional transfers of $551.71 on 3/7/22 and $500.00 on 3/29/22 were made to cover claims submitted after the March board meeting and adjusted claims list will be submitted to the board at the May board meeting.  The electronic fund transfers have been made but the claims will be in the May claims or March claims will be adjusted.

FINANCIAL REPORT

April 2022 Financial Report

CLERK/TREASURER COMMENTS – Carrie/Donna

• SLFRF/ARPA Fund Reporting – Donna reports she has information from the Treasury on the use of the ARPA funds.  The Township hasn’t used the funds but Donna has to sign up for the portal for future reporting and confirm the Township’s role. Donna will check with the MAT group about the resolution the  Board approved to see if it should be submitted.  To be completed by 4/30/2022.
• DUNS number change to UEI – Unique Entity Identifier.  No action required for entities that have a registered DUNS number through sams.gov.  Retain DUNS number for historical reference. Carrie/Mary
• Donna asked if anyone has spoken to Susan Forbragd about reduced cleaning hours.  Mary to contact her.

CORRESPONDENCE – New Variance application request from community member for a garage on W. Briar Lake Dr. This will be addressed at the St. Louis County Board of Adjustment on May 12.  North Star Board please review available copies of application and send comments, if any, with a Resolution to bourbonaisj@stlouiscountymn.gov.   Neither Jan or Gary have any comments.  Jan, as Deputy Chair will email St Louis County to find out if anything formal needs to be submitted when there are no comments.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Gary reported it has been quiet.  There was training the week of 4/11 with a few attending.  There is training for responding to issues with electric cars in Two Harbors the week of 4/25.  It is sponsored by Cooperative Light & Power.

MAINTENANCE –     The bulletin board on the wall of the recycling shed is deteriorating and needs to be replaced.  Greg Medis who is a resident and a wood worker met with Jan about the cost to build one, which would be $500 – $600. This would require  alot of maintenance such as staining.  He recommended an aluminum option on Amazon which would be less maintenance.  One has glass doors/one acrylic. Greg will do additional research.  Gary makes a motion, pending further investigation, to order one within $500.  Jan seconds the motion.  All ayes.

RECYCLING – Jan has nothing new to report.  The grant has not arrived yet.

ROADS – Gary reports the roads are wet.  Saint Louis County will grade when the conditions are appropriate.  Donna reported the 2nd invoice from the County for snowplowing was received and paid.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT –  The April 2022 e-newsletter was sent out the first week in April.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –  Jan said at the previous meeting a simple contract for the Weed Inspector is needed.  Mary to work on that for June.

NEW BUSINESS – All DS200 and AutoMark machines MUST undergo maintenance this year. The vendor for the equipment will be updating the software and potentially the hardware in the machines.  Maintenance is required for the machine to work.

St Louis County is waiting for confirmation from our vendor on the specific dates for maintenance but anticipate the last week of April or the first week of May. Machine drop-off will be prior to the maintenance date.  Mary checking with Phil Chapman at St Louis County to see if maintenance and training can take place at the Town Hall.

Donna reports a reminder from the US Department of Commerce census bureau that they mailed the 2022 Census of Governments, Survey of Public Employment & Payroll to be completed.  Donna will try to login to the site to see what information is required.  Mary to complete upon return.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Mary to contact Sue regarding reduced cleaning schedule, Jan to contact St Louis County regarding the resolution and whether or not there is any action required if no comments/objectives.  Mary to create a contract for the Weed Inspector.  Donna to login to the US Department of Commerce to check on the survey.

UPCOMING EVENTS – North Star Fire FD/EMS Pancake Breakfast, Sunday, May 29^th at the North Star Town Hall from 8 a.m. to noon.

Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting will be held on May 10, 2022 at the North Star Town Hall from 5 – 6 pm.

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – May 17^th, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT – Jan makes a motion to adjourn and Gary seconds it.  All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Carrie Landman/Mary Hellman

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

03/15/2022

CALL TO ORDER – Dick Dillon called the meeting to order as the new Chairman of the Board.

ATTENDING – Supervisor Gary Mantay, Supervisor Jan Keough, Supervisor Dick Dillon, Treasurer Donna Elsbury, Clerk Mary Hellman, Ray Barnes, Deb Pomroy, Rory Blazevic, Tim Walters.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – All present recited the pledge at the beginning of the evening,

FEBRUARY 2022 MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Motion by Gary Mantay, 2nd by Jan Keough to approve February 2022 Minutes with no corrections. All ayes.

REVIEW AND APPROVE PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Discussion to include payment in full to Generac for a 5-year warranty. Motion to approve Payroll and claims, including to pay the Generac bill was made by Jan Keough, second by Dick Dillon. Vote: Jan- aye, Dick- aye, Gary- aye.

TREASURER REPORT –

March 2022 Financial Report

Transfer – Donna reported the Transfer amount of $4334.14 was for checks # 8352 – 8366 and ___EFT PERA_____.

• ARPA update – Donna said that the transfer of general funds to the ARPA fund is complete.

CLERK/TREASURER COMMENTS –

• Mary needs to get a Notary Registration and Stamp. Minnesota State charges $120/year and the stamp is a single cost of approximately $40. She agreed to have it available for both the township business and community requests. A motion was made to accept this yearly cost of $120 and a one-time stamp cost of approximately $40 by Jan Keough, 2nd by Dick Dillon. Vote: Jan – aye, Dick – Aye, Gary – aye.

• Carrie Landman, deputy clerk will be stepping in to cover as town clerk while Mary is on vacation next month. Details to be worked out with her soon. Thank you, Carrie!

CORRESPONDENCE

The St. Louis County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 9:00 am, at the Government Services Center, 201 South 3rd Avenue West, Virginia, MN. The Commission will consider comments on proposed amendments to the St. Louis County Subdivision Ordinance 60. – Copy of current Ordinance Number 60 is included for review. Discussion followed. No one was available to attend this meeting.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Rory Blazevic, Chief, requested signatures for the CAPF form; which is regarding DNR rates if we get called out for wild fires (trucks, hoses, manpower, etc.). Also, would have claims from charges which he’ll submit. The department completed the 16-hour refresher, but would still like to see more people sign up as the membership is low. They have a mass casualty practice coming up to get hands on practice. No calls in the last month, except for a mutual aid call from Pequaywan FD which was cancelled.

Pancake Breakfast update: Sunday May 29th, all volunteers appreciated! Donations to Fire and EMS Department for additional equipment and training.

Rory requested authorization from the board to sell an old fire truck, which cannot be used any more. Motion by Dick Dillon to sell the truck, 2nd by Jan Keough, discussion followed. Vote: all ayes. Motion carried.

MAINTENANCE – Dick Dillon reported that there is a worsening leak around the vent in the ceiling of the women’s bathroom, wrecking more tiles. It needs to be fixed after the snow and ice is off of the roof.

Dick also stated there was an extended warranty offer from Generac, were the township purchased their generator. Generac will provide an extended 5-year warranty for $515.00. Discussion followed and a motion was made by Gary to purchase this coverage and was Seconded by Dick. Vote: Gary – Aye, Dick – aye, Jan – aye. Motion accepted. The check will be made tonight to pay this in a timely manner.

RECYCLING – Jan Keough reported all is going well.

ROADS – Gary Mantay reported St. Louis County HD came to grind up the ice on the road. They did a good job which will made the road safer.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan Keough reported a “Hand-out” was created for the township website which will helpful for both new and longstanding township members. It includes information about all the services available here in North Star, from the 911 Fire/EMS, recycling, burning permits, book exchange, leash law ordinance, etc., etc. This was reviewed by the Communication Committee and additions were made and entered.

The eNewsletter continues to be distributed is a good resource for Township updates also. Jan would like to see another one sent out around the beginning of May.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Weed Report – Tim Walters provided additional information on the 2021 Township Weed Report, including how the report is being updated to become available for public viewing. Deb Pomroy provided some background on the on-line reporting software. Tim thanked Deb for her help.

NEW BUSINESS –

Announcement from St. Louis County, Phil Chapman

Minnesota Statute 204B.14 requires that we [North Star Township] pass a resolution to reestablish our precinct boundaries and reestablish our polling place after the congressional and legislative redistricting plans have been released. Even if there are no changes, a resolution must be made and passed by the town board: See Attachment 1.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – none

UPCOMING EVENTS – Pancake Breakfast at North Star Town Hall on Sunday, May29, 2022 from 8 a.m. to noon.

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – Tuesday, April 19, 2022

ADJOURNMENT – A motion was made by Jan Keough to adjourn the meeting at 8:00 p.m. Gary seconded it. All ayes.

Respectively submitted,

Mary Hellman

Clerk

ATTACHMENT 1

Announcement from St. Louis County, Phil Chapman

Minnesota Statute 204B.14 requires that we [North Star Township] pass a resolution to reestablish our precinct boundaries and reestablish our polling place after the congressional and legislative redistricting plans have been released. Even if there are no changes, a resolution must be made and passed by the town board:

Resolution Reestablishing Precincts and Polling Places

St. Louis County, State of MN

WHEREAS, the legislature of the State of Minnesota has been redistricted; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute section 204B.14, subd. 3(d) requires that precinct boundaries be reestablished within 60 days of when the legislature has been redistricted or at least 19 weeks before the state primary election, whichever comes first;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Board of North Star Township, County of St. Louis, State of Minnesota, hereby reestablishes the boundaries of the voting precincts and polling places as follows:

Precinct 1: The entire township of North Star.

The entire precinct shall be included in Precinct 1.

The Polling Site: North Star Town Hall at 7700 Pequaywan Lk Rd, Duluth, MN 55803

Dick Dillon Made a motion to accept Precinct and Polling Place as listed. Jan Keough second. Vote: All Ayes.

Adopted by the Town Board this 15th day of March, 2022.

Signed,

Richard Dillon, Township Board Chairperson

Signed,

Mary Hellman, Township Clerk

Addendum – A map of this precinct was sent with resolution to St. Louis County. Polling Place is posted at North Star Town Hall.

2022 February Minutes

TOWN OF NORTH STAR Board Meeting

02/15/2022          

ATTENDING – Supervisor Gary Mantay, Supervisor Jan Keough, Supervisor Dick Dillon, Treasurer Donna Elsbury, Clerk Mary Hellman. Guests Marv Forbragd, Sue Forbragd, Ray Barnes, Deb Pomroy  

CALL TO ORDER – Gary Mantay

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Recited by all present.

MINUTES APPROVAL – Motion to accept January 2022 Minutes after corrections was made by Dick, seconded by Jan. All ayes.

REVIEW AND APPROVE PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Motion to accept Payroll and Claims made by Dick, second by Gary. Vote: Dick – aye, Gary – aye, Jan – aye.

TRANSFER – Donna reported the Transfer amount of $8,915.37 was for checks #8337-8350 and 020122 – 020211. Jan made a motion to accept the transfer amount, Gary seconds. Vote: Jan – aye, Gary – aye, Dick -aye.

COMMENTS FROM CLERK OR TREASURER –

February 2022 Financial Report

 Donna and Mary attended the MAT Clerk/Treasurer Class in St. Michael, MN on Jan 25^th  

The Audit Meeting was held on Friday, January 28^th, at 1:00 pm at the NS Hall. Minutes available.

The Budget Meeting was held on Tuesday, February 8^th, at 6:30 pm at the NS Hall. Minutes available.

Credit Card updates done.  Online banking is intact and all accounts are linked. Got a second bill from CLP so gave card information again to Sherri F. in the CLP office.   

Annual Town Meeting and Election Signs are hung, thanks to Dick and Gary, and to Bob A. for plowing out the Barrs Lake Community Events board.  Absentee Ballot Info is posted on the Hall, Alden, and Briar Lk Boards.

Board of Appeal and Equalization Review, Tentative Date: May 10, 2022 at 3-4 pm

CORRESPONDENCE – Clerk/others

St. Louis County Association of Townships, next membership meeting is in-person in Cotton

Duluth Area Townships – any interest in re-joining this group? ($100/yr) Next meeting 3-17-22 at Rice Lake City Hall.

Boundary and Annexation Survey (BAS)

All correspondence was reviewed, no motions made at this time.

FIRE/EMS – Gary reported the FD had a training meeting during the last department meeting. 

An EMS First Responder Refresher Course is scheduled for February 19-20, 2022 at the hall for 20 hours.

MAINTENANCE – Dick reported that the bulbs have been replaced in the furnace room.  One of the tiles in the women’s bathroom was also fixed.

RECYCLING – Jan

ROADS – Gary said the roads continue to be white and slippery.  

WEBPAGE REPORT – Jan stated that Lee Kaplan from the Website will need a CC to bill for regular expenses.  Mary had received an email regarding this also and has called Lee and provided the CC number for this use. 

E NEWSLETTER – Current letter was sent out January 30^th.  It included news such as the township election, FD information and recycling updates.

COMMUNICATION –

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

Weed Report – Jan.  Dick had talked with Tim Walters to see if he had followed up on the noxious weed reporting.  He was communicating with EDDMapS and the DNR. 

Deb Pomroy said at the meeting that there was still only one report on the web site.    

NEW BUSINESS –

ARPA Funds – Treasurer Donna has spoken with MATT lawyer regarding the process of handling ARPA funds. A resolution was created:

Now therefore be it resolved, that the Town will use ARPA funds to pay for the provision of government services in 2022 as part of lost revenue replacement. Project #2022. Jan made a motion to accept the resolution, Dick, seconds. Discussion followed. Vote: Jan – aye, Dick- aye, Gary – aye.

Donna created a ARPA Fund totransfer the amount of $10,600.38 from where it was held in the General Fund.  A motion was made by Dick, second by Jan to make this transfer of funds. Vote: Dick – aye, Jan – aye, Gary – aye.

REVIEW OF DUTIES –

UPCOMINGEVENTS –

Annual Town Election March 8^th from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. at the North Star Hall

Annual Town Meeting March 8^th to follow election at 8:15 pm, same location.

Re-Organizational Town Meeting March 15 (to precede the Board Meeting at 6:30 pm)

NEXT BOARD MEETING – March 15, 2022, to follow right after the Re-organizational Meeting

ADJOURNMENT – Motion by Gary to adjourn the meeting at 7:25 pm, seconded by Dick. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk