Last week’s Big Lake Township meeting began with a moment of silence for Ewald Petersen, who recently passed away. Petersen served as a town supervisor from 1991-2007. The board decided to make a donation in Petersen’s name to Guardian Angels, where Petersen spent his final days.

Sheriff’s Report

Sgt. Luke McLean gave the sheriff’s report for the month of November. He noted one accident in particular where the driver ended up in the ditch after swerving for squirrels. He advised the audience that the best strategy when encountering any kind of wildlife on the road is to brake, but not to swerve. This includes larger animals such as deer. 

He noted a significant arrest with the sheriff’s office apprehending the suspect who committed arson at the Lord of Glory Church. The suspect was undergoing a mental health crisis.

Finally, Sgt. McLean reported that there was an increase in medical calls recently, many of which were due to COVID-19. 

BLFD Update

Nick Christianson of the Big Lake Fire Dept. gave the department report for the months of October and November. The department responded to 73 calls in the area, including three building fires, one arson, and two grass fires.

A former BLFD firefighter, Aaron Bidle, passed away recently. He served with the BLFD for 10 years and was currently serving at another fire department.

Snow Plowing

The supervisors wished to remind the audience about their policy regarding snow plowing. When snowfall is expected to total between two and four inches, plows are sent out only when snowfall is over or mostly over. If snowfall is expected to be more than four inches, plows may be sent out once during the storm and again when the snowfall is done.

In Other Business,the Board:

• Heard an update from Sherburne County Planning and Zoning;

• Considered investigating what other attorneys would charge the township, in the interest of making sure the township is paying a competitive rate;

• Will once again go out for bids to replace the Fire Dept. roof, as they were unsatisfied with the bids they received;

• Agreed to write a letter of support for a grant for a footbridge on Co. Rd. 5.