The Becker Town Board met Monday evening and further clarified plans for this fall’s election.  In order to successfully and safely provide the best experience for voters, the township will be utilizing the neighboring Becker American Legion building for the election.  Located just feet from the Township Hall, the former fire department building will provide much more space to accommodate voters while adhering to the guidelines being put forth related to the Covid pandemic.

The board is also able to access CARES Act funding to cover election related expenses, thereby there is not a need to spend local taxpayer dollars for the enhancements.

For example, the voting area will be cleaned and sanitized before and after the election.  As they always have, the township will again be offering curbside voting for those who prefer that mode of voting.   Signage to help direct people has been discussed and will be on hand in time to assist with items such as traffic flow and parking.

Chairman Brian Kolbinger said a concerted effort is being made to utilize local companies when possible for related expenditures such as supplies and signage.

In addition to the election expenditures, the board also moved forward with plans to use the same funding stream to upgrade its audio-visual capabilities to assist in live streaming the meetings.  As the equipment is ready, the plan is to switch online platforms from Webex to Zoom, which should allow for easier access for residents to participate and follow along.

Wednesday night, board representatives were scheduled to participate in a call with Sherburne County officials in regards to the rules and accounting measures needed for the CARES Act funding and reimbursements.

Covenants

In other business, the board clarified the township’s position regarding covenants within developments.  The township is not responsible for enforcing them, leaving the issue to homeowner’s associations or the residents themselves to deal with issues such as development signage that needs repair or replacement.

Engineer’s Report

Wes Davis led the board through a few issues, including a letter sent to a homeowner who had established a berm on township easement property.

Bids for the concrete work on 185th avenue were also opened, but a clarification was needed before final awarding of the contract.  Davis will look into the matter and ensure it complies with the township’s desires before moving ahead with the award.

A survey was ordered for the cul de sac on 112th street before final actions can be taken on that roadway, while the decisions for 164th avenue will also be looked at again in August after further information is received.

As a result of the recent storms in the area, some of the supervisors had helped out with some tree and branch removal from township roadways.  The board also discussed ongoing efforts at repairing potholes.

Planning

Township Planner Ben Wikstrom discussed the ordinance modifications that the board had previously ordered in regards to accessory structures.  A public hearing provided little comment and the board moved forward with its plans to scrap site drawings for accessory structures that do not require a permit.

Action was also taken to designate the Township Planner as the zoning administrator as it more closely relates to his position.

It was noted that Sherburne County and the township continue to be one of the fastest growing areas in the state.  In fact, permitting data through the end of June shows a 200% increase over a year ago within the township.

Sheriffs Report

The township experienced a big increase in calls for the past month long period, with 191 calls for service, approximately double the usual load.  Some of the increase was due to a new round of fraudulent telephone calls in the area and Sergeant Dan Frank reminded the board and residents that organizations such as the IRS will not knock on people’s doors or call their phones and ask for personal information.  In addition, there was a large increase in the number of suspicious vehicles and persons reported.  It was noted that law enforcement appreciates when people look out for each other and their neighborhoods.

Fire Board

Upon conclusion of their regular meeting, the board met with Becker City Council members for the annual Joint Powers Fire Board budget meeting.  This year’s proposed budget was similar to year’s past and after some discussion, the proposed fire department budget and CIP plan was approved.