During their September meeting, Clear Lake Twp. discussed Midco’s broadband expansion plans, the solar garden recently presented by Xcel Energy, and their search for a new township clerk.

Solar Garden

The board reviewed their positive comment letter to the Minnesota Dept. of Commerce concerning the solar garden project presented by Xcel Energy and National Grid Renewables. Xcel is applying for a site permit to build a large solar energy plant near its existing Sherco Power Plant. A public information meeting was held at the end of August so residents could learn more and add their input.

In the letter, the township states they have supported these projects in the past as they have been the voluntary wishes of the landowners and see this project as no different, only larger, and the township and its residents have seen economic and environmental value from the projects.

The board also addressed the concern brought forward by the City of Becker that the placement of the solar garden will physically restrict the growth of their industrial park. The letter explains that to their knowledge Becker has never formally discussed expansion of their industrial park or annexation with the township until this project came about, and that neither they nor their landowners want to base their decision on future speculation when they can benefit immediately.

“I completely understand Becker’s position with the amount of tax dollars they’ll be losing once Xcel shuts down,” said Chairman Gary Gray. “They want to grow and expand. From our point of view we’ve never turned down a solar farm yet as it’s a permitted use in the county and is what the landowners want. The project will be a benefit to the township and property owners.”

In attendance at the meeting was Sherburne Co. Commissioner Felix Schmiesing, who stated the county was also in favor of the project.

Midco

Midco Government Relations Manager Melissa Wolf approached the board to introduce the rural broadband provider and update them on the company’s previous and future expansion plans in Sherburne Co.

Specific areas in Clear Lake Twp. Midco will be expanding into were discussed along with rough estimates on the project costs for each area, which ARPA funds will be used for. The township requested more solid costs, number of houses, and addresses that will be included and asked what percentage of ARPA funds will come from Clear Lake Twp.’s portion. 

Wolf will return with the requested information and to discuss next steps.

Clerk Needed

The board approved running an ad in the newspaper for a new clerk through the end of October or until the position has been filled. The position is part time, averaging 28 hours per month. Anyone interested in applying for the position is encouraged to go to clearlaketownship.org for a full job description and job application form.

Park Update

Supervisor Bud Stimmler informed the board he’d received $3,750 worth of native seeds for planting at Clear Lake Twp. Park. The township will be reimbursed cost from county park dedication funds.

Twp. Engineer Terrance Vander Eyk informed the board they’d received a grant from Great River Greening for the township to create a 1 ½-acre pollinator garden on the northwest corner of the park. He’s met with a representative to discuss the approximately $9,275 project, which will begin this fall and go through next fall.

Other Business

A motion carried to insure the township hall for $705,000.

The sheriff reported 121 points of contact for August, including two DWIs, three medicals, and 50 traffic stops. Gray requested increased patrol on Co. Road 8, stating he’s concerned about safety due to the increase of speeding and passing on the right. 

The next Clear Lake Twp. meeting will be Oct. 19 at 7 p.m.