Author: Mary Hellman

TOWN OF NORTH STAR        04/18/2023

CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME, and PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Jan    6:29pm

ATTENDANCE: Jan, Gary, Ray, Donna, Denise, Jenae. Dick and Mary absent.

MARCH 2023 MINUTES – Review and Board approval, motion – Reorganized meeting minutes update. Updates for Rates and bank notes. Saved for Mary to update. Motion to approve: Gary and 2^nd by Jan. Motion to approve Reorganization minutes: Motion to approve: Jan, 2^nd Gary. Vote: Jan – aye, Gary – aye, Dick absent. Motion passed.

FINANCIAL REPORT – Donna

MARCH 2023 PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Review and Board approval. Motion to approve payroll, claims and transfer. Gary, 2^nd Jan. Dick absent. Gary – aye, Jan – aye. Motion passed.

TRANSFER – Donna reported the beginning checkbook balance of $301.96. Transfer amount of $5726.47 for checks #8547-8561. EFT’s for PERA $54.00. Superior Choice Credit Union check printing $98.04. IRS quarterly tax payment $1163.92. Ending Checkbook balance $300.00.

CLERK COMMENTS / CORRESPONDANCE- Jenae. No comments at this time. No correspondence at this time. 

SHORT TERM RENTAL PROPERTY – Denise. Notes forwarded from Denise in regards to County rules and regulations for STR’s to group.

RECYCLING – Jan. Nothing new to report.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan: E-news was sent 4/18/2023. Included upcoming meetings and events. Jan will continue this duty until further notice.

FIRE – Rory/Gary: Assistance is needed for the pancake breakfast. Servers, wait staff, cooks etc. are needed.

ROADS- Gary: Grading will happen after roads dry out. Culverts will happen in the summer. Not dates identified.

MAINTENACE: No items at this time.

NEW BUSINESS- Gary/Jan: Alden East Common Interest Community requested use of townhall 9AM, May 6^th for annual road meeting.

MAT Training Session for Supervisors:

• Employee notice from Department of Labor and Industry stating rate of pay for each job held.
  • Yearly
  • Kept on file
  • Not for elected officials
• Conflict of interest
  • Effects Supervisors
  • Emergency work specific
    • Have resolution at beginning of year
    • Paid at or less than any contractor or other employee would get
    • Statement regarding pay rate on invoice and submission of time
  • Can we have a contractor that is a supervisor?

• Timecards
  • Clerk and Treasurer should have timecards reviewed as well as all other staff.
  • Submit online prior to meeting

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – Briar Lake variance request. 7773 W Briar Lake Dr, Alan Josephson. Garage set back. No action.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Meeting with county planning Jan. Donna to do resolution and contact MAT.

UPCOMING EVENTS –

MAY 9, 2023 AT 5PM – 6PM, BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

MAY 16^TH, 2023 AT 6:30PM

MAY 28^th, 2023 AT 8:00AM – NOON, NS FIRE DEPT PANCAKE BREAKFAST

ADJOURNMENT: 7:40 pm Motion to Adjourn: Gary, 2^nd Jan.

TOWN OF NORTH STAR        03/21/2023

CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME, and PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Jan

Attendance – Supervisors: Chairperson Janet Keough, Gary Mantay, Dick Dillon, Treasurer Donna Elsbury, Clerk Mary Hellman, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes, and Deb Pomroy.

FEBRUARY 2023 MINUTES – Review and Board approval, motionmade to accept the February 2023 Minutes (with corrections) by Dick, second by Jan. Vote: all ayes. Motion passed.

FEBRUARY 2023 PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – Review and Board approval

FINANCIAL REPORT – Donna

TRANSFER – Donna reported the Transfer amount of $3047.60

for checks #8531- 8546.   EFTs / PERA -54.00. Ending checkbook balance of $301.46.

Review and Board approval; Gary made a motion to accept transfer of funds, second by Dick. Vote: Gary -aye, Jan – aye, dick – aye. Motion passed.

TREASURER COMMENTS – Donna will be calling MATIT to find out more about premiums. The County Tax Distribution will be available in early June.

CLERK COMMENTS / CORRESPONDANCE- Mary 

Election Results:  Gary Mantay won the seat of Supervisor in a vote of 15/Gary, 4/Write-ins/Bill Bailey. All voting results were brought to the courthouse on March 15, 2023.

Dick and Mary will be on vacation the month of April.  Jenae will be filling in for Mary as Clerk at this time. – Sue Forbragd sent a Thank You card to the NS Board for when Marvin was very ill..

SHORT TERM RENTAL PROPERTY – Denise Anderson from the STR Committee sent an update for this meeting.

RECYCLING – Jan reported there is nothing new regarding recycling; all is good.

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan reported the next E-News will be out in late April. Lee Kaplan is leaving the township and will not be able to provide consulting.

Carrie will also be done also when someone else is available to take over.

ROADS – Gary reports that there is not much new; the roads are still white and slippery.

FIRE – Rory/Gary – Gary reported there was one fire call in the last month.

MAINTENANCE – Dick stated that some ice fell and struck the outside electrical box.. Gary called CLP and they came in to fix it. Also the women’s bathroom mirror needs fixing or replacing.  Dick will look into it.

NEW BUSINESS

-Tax Forfeit Land, Deb Pomroy and Ray Barnes provided detailed information to the County regarding a piece of land that was listed as Tax Forfeit.  The Township Board found no problem with the information the had provided to the county.

-DAT (Duluth Area Townships), Jan showed interest in rejoining the group to get updated on current topics.  The dues are $100/yr. Dick made a motion to have Jan join and NST pay the dues, second by Gary. Gary – aye, Dick – aye, Jan – aye.  Motion passed.

MN Association of Townships – Jan showed interest in attending the MAT Training in Duluth on April 7, 2023. Cost is $75/full day.  Motion by Gary to accept her request, second by Dick. Vote: Gary-aye, Dick – aye, Jan – aye. Motion passed

-Variance Request / 7666 Barr’s Lake Rd, Board

OLD BUSINESS – None

REVIEW OF DUTIES –  Donna to check on MATIT premiums, Dick to fix/replace mirror

UPCOMING EVENTS –

APRIL 18, 2023 21 AT 6:30 PM, APRIL TOWN BOARD MTG

MAY 9, 2023 AT 5PM – 6PM, BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

MAY 28^th, 2023 AT 8:00AM – NOON, NS FIRE DEPT PANCAKE BREAKFAST

ADJOURNMENT – Dick motioned to adjurn the meeting at 7:15 pm, second by Gary, all ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted by,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

2/21/2023 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 Chief Rory Blazevic, Denise Anderson  

JANUARY MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Motion to accept by Gary, second by Jan. Vote: All ayes. Motion passed.

 FINANCIAL REPORT

REVIEW AND APPROVE JANUARY PAYROLL AND CLAIMS –Motion by Dick to accept payroll and claims.  Second by Gary. Vote: Gary – aye, Dick -aye. Jan – aye.  Motion passed.

TRANSFER – Donna  

Transfer – Donna reported the Transfer amount of $7946.86 for checks 8513-8530   EFT PERA AMOUNT OF $_162.00_, Checkbook end balance – $300.00.  Jan made a motion to accept the transfer, Dick seconded. Vote; Gary – aye, Dick – aye, Jan – aye.

Motion passed.

CLERK COMMENTS – Election Update: Absentee Voting can be done by calling the clerk, Mary earlier or coming to the hall on March 11^th, 2023 from 10 am to noon. Phone: 218-269-0543.

CORRESPONDENCE – 1) Annexation Reform Letter, 2) American Red Cross Support, 3) Tax Forfeit Land. Discussion, but no action on these items.

RECYCLING – Jan reported that the WLSSD Report was due in February.  She already completed and submitted this for $5092.32. Included were employee salaries, benefits, electricity, propane, plowing, etc.  All is going well.

WEBPAGE / E-NEWS COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan.  The Township Website and E-Newsletter continue to be updated with current township information.  Jan reminded Mary to get the minutes on-line as soon as possible.

2023 February Board Meeting Minutes (continued)

FIRE DEPARTMENT –Rory.  It has been a quiet year for FD/EMS calls. 3 sets of fire gear have been fitted and ordered for members with ARPA funds, in the amount of $14473.50.    Jan made a motion to accept the use of these funds and amount for this purpose, Gary seconded.  Vote: Jan – aye, Gary – aye, Dick – aye. Motion passed.   He also will be working with the clerk/treasurer in sending in the State Fire Aid Form, due in March.  The next FD Meeting will be on February 22, 2023.

MAINTENANCE –Dick reported that the Board hired Tony Thomas from Dirt Works to push the big banks back in the hall lot. He did a good job.  Gary and Dick completed snow removal from the hall roof.  Dick provided snow plowing for the hall while Jimmy was on vacation.

ROADS – Gary reported that the township roads were snowy, icy, and slippery.  Rory had been pushing large heavy snow ball chunks off the roads as they could be problematic. Gary said he would be calling on bids for culverts to be put on the East Briar Lake Rd.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Short Term Rentals –Denise Anderson, representing the STR Committee attended tonight’s meeting and gave a report on current progress and stated their committee would bring a report to the town’s annual Meeting on March 14^th.

NEW BUSINESS – Jan stated that Carrie Landman is planning to be done as Deputy Clerk. NS needs to find a replacement for this position, as it is responsible for the township’s communication Website and E-Newsletter.  Jenae Pitoscia has applied and the clerk has accepted Jenae’s offer.  She will get started in March and Carrie is willing to provide training.  Thank you, Carrie!  Welcome, Jenae!

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Gary to get quotes on culverts for East Briar Lk.  Jan to call Eagles Nest Township for Short Term Rental information.

UPCOMING MEETINGS:

TOWNSHIP ELECTION –March 14^th from 5:00 p.m.to 8:00 p.m.

TOWNSHIP CANVAS MTG TO FOLLOW ELECTION AT 8:00 p.m. – 8:00 15 p.m.

TOWNSHIP ANNUAL MTG TO FOLLOW AT 8:15 p.m.

TOWNSHIP REORGANIZATION AND TOWNSHIP MARCH BOARD MEETINGS – March 21, 2023 at 6:30.

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

Annual Town Meeting Minutes 2022

March 8, 2022 at 8:15 p.m.

Mary Hellman, Clerk called the Annual Town meeting to order and welcomed the attending residents.  Pledge of Allegiance was said by all.

Mary called for a nomination of a Moderator for the meeting. Gary Mantay motioned to nominate Rod Saline.  Sue Forbragd seconded the motion. Mary called out two more times, no more nominations were made. Rod was voted in by a voice vote of all ayes, no nays. Passed.

Rod Saline announced the meeting agenda.  No questions.

2022 Town Supervisor Election Results – Election Judge Sue Forbragd announced the results of the election for the 3-year Supervisor term.  Janet Keough received 40 votes, Bill Bailey received 10 votes. (2 other ballots were voided as they had 2 votes per ballot.) Jan won the election.

Review /Approval pf the previous year’s minutes (as posted prior to meeting).  Linda Britton made a motion to accept 2021 Annual Meeting Minutes, Sue Forbragd seconded.  The motion passes with a unanimous voice vote of all ayes, no nays. Passed.

Reading of 2021 Board of Audit and Financial Reports(as posted prior to meeting) by Treasurer Donna Elsbury.  The floor was open for questions asked and answered.

Road Report from Gary Mantay, Road Supervisor -North Star continues to maintain East and West Briar Lake Drives.  Plowing, brushing, grading, and gravel came at the cost of $3467.00 in 2021.  The 2021 tax levy income for the road was $4589.90.  Town Aide was $1751,46.  Interest earning was $6.13.  2022 – the budget is $7500.00, with increase in costs of $2800.00 for gravel laid by the bus turn around.  Gary confirmed that yes, they are planning to do this, along with a new culvert in this area.

Proposed 2023 Levy

• General:  Motion to approve by Linda Britton, second by Sue Forbragd. Vote: all ayes, no nays.  Approved.
• Road and Bridge:  Motion to approve by Sue Forbragd, seconded by Ray Barnes.  Vote: all ayes, no nays.  Approved.
• Fire/EMS: Motion to approve by Sue Forbragd, second by Jan Keough. Vote: all ayes, no nays. Approved.
• Building:  Motion to approve by Sue Forbragd, seconded by Linda Britton. Discussion regarding expenses, the increased was due to new WiFi costs, and increase in insurance and propane costs. Vote: all ayes, no nays.  Approved.

2022 Annual Town Meeting Minutes (Continued)

Fire/EMS Report – Rory Blazevic, Fire Chief.  Rory stated that it has been relatively quiet recently.  They had a busier dry spring with wildfires to which the department responded mutually in the Finland area.  Membership is down by 5 members, so Rory is putting a call out to interested people to stop in during a meeting.  Meetings are 1^st and 3^rd Wednesdays at 6 pm, all are welcome.  They also need a grant writer position filled, if interested contact Rory.  Lastly, the department is looking forward to having the Pancake Breakfast again this spring.

The Communication Report was given by Jan Keough.  She gave the history of the need for a Communication Committee which was then formed in 2019 and listed what has happened in the interim.  There is a NEW Township Website at NORTHSTARMN.NET, on which our Township information and business is available. The platform was created by a local resident, is at a reasonable cost, and is user-friendly. Some of the areas on the website provides a calendar, access to contacting Town Board Members, Town Business (Board Meeting Minutes and Financial Information), land use information, and more.  The North Star ENewsletter continues to be a quarterly online publication which is accessible through the Website.  In the works:  a hand out area which would have information for new residents such as what services are available in our area, how to get burning permits, and other areas of interest/suggestions from our community.

Other business – Tentative date for Local Board of Appeal & Equalization Review for North Star Township Area: May 10, 2022 at 3-4 pm at North Star Town Hall.

Motion by Gary Mantay to set the date, time and location for the next annual meeting on the second Tuesday of March: March 14, 2023, 8:00 pm at North Star Hall. (Alternative date March 21, 2023).  Linda Britton seconds. Vote: All ayes, no nays, Passed.

Motion to adjourn at 8:45 pm made by Ray Barnes, Gary Mantay seconds.  Vote: All ayes, no nays. Passed.

Minutes Respectfully Submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

Board Meeting Minutes   

TOWN OF NORTH STAR                 Date- 01/17/2023

ATTENDENCE – Supervisors- Dick Dillon, Jan Keough, Gary Mantay. Donna Elsbury, Treasurer, and Mary Hellman, Clerk. Guests: Denise Anderson, Linda Britton. 

CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME, and PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Dick

DECEMBER 2022 MINUTES – Review and Board approval; Dick made a motion to accept the minutes with corrections, Gary seconded the motion. Vote: all -ayes, motion passed.

 SHORT TERM RENTALS – Short Term Rental Property, Committee Report – Denise Anderson brought a Moratorium and Resolution created by the Committee to discuss with the board and request a vote.  Discussion by the Town Board followed.  A motion was made by Jan Keough to accept the Moratorium and Resolution #1. A second was made Gary Mantay.  The Vote: Dick Dillon – aye, Gary Mantay – aye, Jan Keough – aye.  Motion passed.  Clerk to send a letter to St. Louis Co. informing them of these actions.

DECEMBER 2022 PAYROLL AND CLAIMS – After review, Gary made a motion to accept this payroll and claims list. Jan seconded the motion. Vote: Jan – aye, Gary -aye, Dick – aye.  Motion passed.

FINANCIAL REPORT – Donna

TRANSFER – Donna reported the ARPA Transfer amount of $1378.10

for checks #8503 – #8512.   EFTs / PERA – $54.00_, IRS 4Q – $827.44.   Leaves balance of $300.00 in checking account.

TREASURER COMMENTS – Donna had no additional comments.

CLERK COMMENTS – March Election update: Jan. 17^th, 2023 at 5 pm (today) is the last day for candidates to apply for Township Supervisor. Election is March 14^th.  Postings were hung, and notices will be posted in the North Star E-Newsletter. North Star Town Hall is the approved place for up-coming election.  We will not be using the DS200 for the local election as we are under 500 residents.  Mary provided a list of election judges that were available to chose from for the election which was accepted by the board for upcoming election. Motion to accept by Gary, 2^nd by Dick. Vote: all ayes.  

CORRESPONDENCE – St. Louis County Sheriff sent inquiry regarding a visit by Deputy to Board Meeting(s).  Discussion by board showed no interest at this time, to be tabled and revisited as needed.  Gary will mention this to the fire department.

Department of Health – Information sent regarding the THC (Canabis derivative) sales. None in North Star Township.  Also, a poster was included about the health benefits/risks.

RECYCLING – Jan stated 2022 Report for WLSSD is due on February 28, 2023.  Donna is preparing this yearly list of disbursements.    

WEBPAGE/COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan stated there is a E-news letter for January.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Rory/Gary – 2 calls in the last month. There are 1.5 years remaining to spend ARPA Funds for FD equipment needed for firefighters.  

MAINTENANCE – Dick stated the request for snow shovel and floor mat are complete.  Also, Dick and Gary checked on the Generac generator. There was an issue with oil pressure.

NEW BUSINESS – The Township needs to push back large snowbank in our parking area. Dick made a motion to hire someone with a piece of heavy equipment, such as a dozer, to take care of this.  Discussion followed.  Gary seconded the motion. Vote: Jan – aye, Gary – aye, Dick – aye. Motion passed. 

ROADS – Gary reported that the roads are in poor condition, ice and snow covered. Very slippery.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Gary or Donna will check with Bob Anderson, or Tony Thomas to see if either would have the time/equipment to move large banks back in parking area.

Clerk to send letter to SLC regarding Short Term Rentals.  Donna to work with Jan regarding WLSSD report.

UPCOMING EVENTS –

January 24, 2023 Financial Records Audit at 6:30 p.m.

February 13, 2024 Budget Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

February 21, 2023 Next Regular Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

March 14, 2023 Annual Township Election 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

And Annual Town Meeting after Election at 8:15 p.m.

March 21, 2023 Town Re-Organizational Mtg and Town Board Mtg to follow at 6:30 p.m.

To Be Determined – Well water testing at hall with Bruce Olsen

ADJOURNMENT – A motion was made by Gary and seconded by Jan to adjourn the meeting at 7:30 pm. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

TOWN OF NORTH STAR

12/20/2022 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, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes, Clerk Mary Hellman, and FD Chief Rory Blazevic. Absent: Treasurer Donna Elsbury

NOVEMBER MINUTES REVIEW AND APPROVAL – Motion to accept by Jan, second by Gary. Vote: All ayes. 

 FINANCIAL REPORT

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

TRANSFER – Ray  

Transfer – Ray reported the Transfer amount of  $1347.83 for checks #8488 – 8502,      EFT PERA AMOUNT OF $_54.00_,  and Checkbook balance – $300.00.

TREASURER COMMENTS – Donna left message with Mary to ask about a credit statement from MacQueen Emergency Billing.  Rory and Ray both responded it can be a credit back into that account. Mary to let Donna know.

CLERK COMMENTS – Mary reported a request to have a shovel by the Hall door and a mat on the floor in the entrance.  A discussion resulted in Rory offering to bring an extra mat from the Fire Hall to use in the entrance and Dick made a motion to purchase a shovel to be kept by the door. Gary seconded this motion. Vote: Jan – aye, Dick – aye, Gary -aye.  Rory brought the mat in and put it in place at the meeting.  Mary will buy the shovel.

CORRESPONDENCE – A notice was sent to all townships from MAT that there will be $2000 Scholarships made available to HS Juniors in 2023. More information will be available in the January North Star E-newsletter per Jan.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Rory reported no calls this month.  The FD held 2023 Elections for officers at the November 16^th Meeting.  The elected officers stayed the same, with Rory as Fire Chief. The Town Board accepted the election results with a vote of all ayes.  Rory will be checking on which FD members need fire gear/equipment because there are ARPA funds designated for this. The next FD Meeting will be on December 21, 2022.

MAINTENANCE –The hall generator did not come on during a power shortage; Dick will look into it.  The FD was asked if they would shovel snow around the generator. Jimmy T. was also asked if he could occasionally shovel around the generator. Gary made a motion to increase the amount for plowing out the FD/Hall to $75/ per time, Dick seconded. Vote: Gary – aye, Dick – aye, Jan – aye.  The 2022-2023 Contract needs to be updated with the new details.

RECYCLING – Jan attended the WLSSD meeting. She requested the Recycling Financial Report from the treasurer. The Deadline is the end of February. All is going fine.

WEBPAGE / E-NEWS COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan stated that the e-Newsletter will be sent out in January.

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’ll call Kelly at the county clear this up.

WEEDS Report – Jan asked if the Weed Inspector Annual Report is done and sent in.  Yes, the report was completed by Tim on November 5^th, signed, and sent into the county.

See report included.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

SHORT TERM RENTALS – No members of the North Star Short Term Rentals Committee attended the meeting so the topic was tabled until later.  They will have info for the Board at the next meeting.

WELL WATER TESTING – Bruce Olsen did not attend this meeting so the topic was tabled until later.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Mary to check with Donna on the deadline for using ARPA funds. Jan requested the Recycling Financial Report from Donna by the end of February.

UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS WERE SCHEDULED AT HALL:

TOWN BOARD REGULAR MTG – Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.

TOWN AUDIT MTG – Tuesday, January 24^th, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.

TOWN BUDGET MTG – Monday, February 13^th 2023, at 6:30 p.m.

TOWN BOARD REGULAR MTG – February 21^st, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.

TOWNSHIP ELECTION –March 14^th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

TOWNSHIP CANVAS MTG TO FOLLOW ELECTION AT 8:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.

TOWNSHIP ANNUAL MTG TO FOLLOW AT 8:15 p.m.

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

11/15/2022          

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, Bruce Olsen 

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

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

TRANSFER – DONNA  

Transfer – Donna reported the Transfer amount of $18,337.61 for checks  #8467 – #8486.  PERA AMOUNT OF $_54.00_, and checkbook balance – $300.00.

FINANCIAL REPORT

TREASURER COMMENTS – DONNA 

• Checked the payment amount of $12,743.00 for the fire truck and it was correct. This is reflected in the transfer.

CLERK COMMENTS – MARY

• Clerk reports She and Donna attended the training offered by MATT on Nov. 2^nd, 2022 at Ellsburg Town Hall (Melrude), regarding End of Year procedures for clerks and treasurers. They found it very valuable and will be able to use the information presented at the meeting.
• The clerk thanked Donna and Jan for providing lunch and treats for the election judges during the recent election. It helped make the long day go very well!

CORRESPONDENCE – Bruce Olson arrived somewhat late to the meeting but will return to December’s board meeting to review results from this year’s Well Water Testing. Would like to discuss doing another testing in 2023.

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Gary reported there was one medical call this month.

MAINTENANCE – Dick

• Dick reported the door stop has been replaced.
• Mosquito Squad – The Board discussed the use of a mosquito control at the Hall in 2023.   Donna would need to submit payment this month to lock in the price. A motion was made by Jan to continue to retain the Mosquito Squad’s services the coming year (4 treatment pkg). Gary seconded. Vote: Jan, Gary ayes, Dick – nay. The motion passed.

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

WEBPAGE / E-NEWS COMMUNICATIONS REPORT – Jan reported an e-Newsletter went out. She will check to see how many people are receiving the e-News. Also, the Website Domain and plugins were updated in a timely manner. 

ROADS – Gary reported that the township roads are snow covered and slippery.

NEW BUSINESS – Sue Forbragd, an election judge, wanted to let the board know that a gentlemen came into vote at the recent election who uses a wheelchair. He had no problems but she was concerned.  She was wondering if it would be helpful if the hall entrance door would have cracks filled for safety.  The board felt that this would be a good thing, along with a sign stating there is access through the front fire door and “If Assistance Is Needed Please Knock.”

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

SHORT TERM RENTALS (STR) – Denise represented the Citizen’s Committee and presented a report for the board regarding what they found out regarding STR.  There will be a vote by the board in December on a Moratorium to cease any new STRs starting in North Star Township for one year.

REVIEW OF DUTIES – Gary will call the Mosquito Squad to say our board approved their offer. They need to start the treatments the week of MAY 22^nd before the weekend of Memorial Weekend so it’s done in time for the Pancake Breakfast event. Donna will cut a check for this.

UPCOMING EVENTS –

NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETING – December 20, 2022 AT 6:30 PM AT NS HALL

ADJOURNMENT – There was a motion to adjourn the board meeting at 7:45 pm by Jan, seconded by Gary. All ayes.

Minutes respectfully submitted,

Mary Hellman, Clerk

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