Clear Lake city and township have had a busy 2022 year. Here are some of the highlights.

January

The Clear Lake Lions Club stepped forward this year during the nation’s blood shortage and hosted four blood drives instead of its usual two. Hospitals across the region are currently experiencing a blood shortage that is causing elective surgeries to be postponed, according to Carrie Carlson-Guest, the Regional Communications Director for the Red Cross in Minnesota and the Dakotas.

“We normally have a three to five day supply of blood and products on the shelf, and right now we have less than one day’s worth,” Carlson-Guest says.  “I’ve been with the Red Cross for twenty years and I’ve never seen it like this.”

February

The city council met on a Monday in Febraury and heard an update on a pair of developments that could see new home construction in the near future. Representatives from both the Parkside development and Hunter Lake Bluffs were on hand for an open discussion with council regarding future plans for housing and other amenities. Clerk Kari Koren was in contact with the city attorney as the developer’s agreements were worked on in order to keep the project moving.

March

The Clear Lake City Council met in March and dealt with the 2021 annual audit review as presented by auditor Janel Bitzan. Overall, the report showed the city to be in excellent financial shape, with unmodified (clean) opinions. This opinion is the highest rating possible for a city of Clear Lake’s size. In addition to the city’s financials, reviews were also presented for the Water and Sewer Funds. These also came with a clean audit opinion, as did the review of the city’s regulatory standards as required by the State Auditor.

April

Clear Lake Township Chair Gary Gray welcomed everybody to the CVBC meeting held at the new Clear Lake Township Hall Thursday, April 14th. The meeting was called to order by CVBC President Glenna Soenneker. Glenna introduced all current CVBC Board Members. Each business introduced themselves. City reports were shared.

May

Hazardous conditions on the shores of area lakes and rivers prompted the closing of several roads, trails, bridges and campgrounds in the area in May. Many homes and cabins in the Briggs Lake Chain were completely surrounded by water as a “no wake” summons had been declared for the area. The road around Lake Julia was blocked off as water washed out the road at its lowest points. Docks and floats were submerged and unaccesible as the neighborhood waited for the water to crest and subside.

June

A little rain and the threat of severe weather didn’t stop the Clearwater and Clear Lake Color Guards from honoring veterans who have gone before them. The legionnaires followed the same schedule as usual, first stopping at St. Marcus Cemetery in Clear Lake, then Haven Cemetery (along Hwy. 10), Highland Cemetery (Hasty), Mount Hope and St. Luke’s Cemeteries (Clearwater) and ending at Acacia Cemetery (along Co. Rd. 75). 

July

Briggs Lake in Palmer Twp. had a 4th of July Boat Parade and dozens of colorfully-decorated boats and pontoons took to the waters to show thier patriotism on America’s birthday. Many lake-side residents lined up along the shores and beaches to cheer on the mazing watercrafts.

August

Food trucks have become increasingly popular over the past few years, with innovative cuisine being offered not only at festivals and events, but also as another dining option in cities across Minnesota. Add Clear Lake to that list with the establishment of Buddy’s Burritos and Bowls, which officially opened July 24. Clear Lake area resident Rob Dunlap operates his food truck near the O’Brothers Wine and Spirits store, offering his specialty fare for the local residents and Hwy. 10 commuters.

September

Bittersweet. That’s the word Ray Mulvey and Terry Scheck both used to describe their feelings as they prepared for the September 8 auction of Bailey Ray’s Roadhouse, the iconic Santiago establishment the married couple has owned and operated for the past 22 years.

Known for its amazing food, friendly staff and its annual concert series dubbed “The Shakedown,” Bailey Ray’s is more than just a bar and restaurant for the local community.

October

The Clear Lake Fire Hall was filled with people of all ages last October, all eager to experience the activities at the fire department’s annual open house. Along with the firefighters, the department’s mascot, Leo the firefighting dog, was on hand to greet guests, who were treated to hot dogs and snacks as well as demonstrations, giveaways, and educational materials.

November

During the township’s October meeting, Twp. Engineer Terrance Vander Eyk informed the Clear Lake Twp. Board of Supervisors that road projects costs have gone up significantly due to the high price of oil, explaining last year’s estimate of $81,000 to reclaim and overlay 74th Street/Long Lake Lane is now $121,200. The project was originally scheduled for 2022 but was held back. 

December

During their November meeting, Clear Lake Twp. Chairman Gary Gray announced he would be formally resigning from the board as he will now be serving the residents of Sherburne Co. District 4 as their new county commissioner. Gray won the seat during the November election. Gray thanked board members, stating it had been a pleasure to work with them and ensuring them he would still be around to answer questions. Gray has been on the Clear Lake Twp. Board of Supervisors since 2004, including serving as board chairman for the past 12 years.