At the May 8 meeting of Big Lake Twp., there were quite a few faces in the audience to represent or talk to the board. 

Shoreland  Ordinance Revisions

Lynn Wayteshek, a Planning and Zoning member, was present for the meeting and gave the board of supervisors the chance to ask questions about the revisions that they were unsure about. One of the questions was about the usage of the word septic and whether that was referring to septic tanks or drain fields. Supervisor Dean Brenteson was uncomfortable with the idea of reducing a setback for septic. The board and Wayteshek talked about changes in the language of the ordinance and were able to come to a conclusion that made the board happy.  

Regal Oaks

The board was asked to give recommendation for a simple plat requested by the O’Bradovich’s. Seth Monroe was present for the couple. The Bradovich’s wanted to build a home on the land and then sell the remaining 40 acres to a family member. The board gave positive recommendations for the plat which would be sent to the county planning and zoning.

Letters of Support

Supervisor Brenteson made the request at the beginning of the meeting to add an item to the agenda. Brenteson let the board know that CMRP will be applying for $1,000,000 and requested that members send a letter of support for the CMRP. Brenteson added that Sherburne County will be applying for Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program funding.

Business from the Board

Supervisors Brenteson and Mark Hedstrom went to the county road reconstruction meeting. The next start of construction would begin right after school let out. There will be a bridge over the Elk River that will be closed but emergency vehicles will still be able to go over it. There was an alternative route shown ahead of the project so that people would know what detours to take.

Supervisor Laura Hayes let the board know that the contact she had for the concrete slab had fallen through and she would have to find a new alternative. Hayes will also be moving cabinets and countertops with her husband in the Twp. kitchen to make room for a commercial fridge that was donated to the Twp.

Supervisor Brenteson let the board know that the CMRP was finally moving to change into a non-profit organization. Flarety and Hood Consulting is assisting with the transition from a joint powers to a non-profit. There will be a meeting with a firm to discuss the terms of the agreement. 

Announcements

• Next regular meeting was Wednesday May 22, 2024, at 6 p.m.

• Big Lake Community Food Shelf Produce Distribution was Monday May 20 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Recycle Day was Saturday May 18, gates opened from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.