Jim Halila (joined by his wife Mary Halila) once again approached the board about installing a solar farm on his property (which was formerly the Big Lake Airport). Previously, Halila was told he could not install a solar farm because the county only allows solar farms within city limits.
Halila had asked the board to annex his property to the city, but the board was opposed to the idea, as their agreement with the city states that the city may grow only from its current boundaries. Annexing Halila’s land would give the city a “jumping-off point” from which they could grow.
Halila, along with a representative from US Solar, suggested that the board put into place an ordinance stating that Halila’s land and neighboring parcels be required to pay a one-time $40,000 fee in order to be annexed. The board said they would consider this.
Sheriff’s Report
Sgt. Luke McLean of the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office gave the monthly report. He noted one incident of an ice house break-in, with the suspect removing several appliances and a TV.
There was a theft from the storage facility off of Co. Rd. 17 and Hwy. 25. The suspect was apprehended when he attempted to sell the stolen goods on Facebook Marketplace.
There were three cases of unemployment fraud in the county. Suspects attempted to apply for unemployment despite being currently employed. The suspects did not receive any unemployment checks before being caught.
Finally, Sgt. McLean was happy to note a decrease in COVID-19 related medical calls.
Dog Catcher
The township has previously employed two dog catchers, one during the week and another on weekends. The weekend dog catcher informed the board that he will no longer be able to offer his services to the township.
The board discussed ways they could replace his service, or if they even needed to do so. The weekend dog catcher has only been called upon for service a limited number of times during his contract with the township.
The board directed clerk Brenda Kimberly-Maas to talk with the Big Lake Police and see if they would be willing to hold any animals over the weekend should the situation arise.
In Other Business, the Board:
• Heard an update from county assessor Michelle Moen;
• Noted that the town hall office will be closed Feb. 21 in observance of Presidents’ Day;
• Decided to market the parcel Knick Knack Knoll;
• Discussed maintenance needs at the Bailey Cemetery;
• Applied for a grant to help pay for the annual Recycle Day;
• Noted the board of audit will be held during the next regular meeting, Feb. 23.
