Over 50 residents showed up for the Palmer Annual meeting, and Barb Keenan was elected moderator.

The Palmer supervisor race drew the most attention locally and citizens responded by turning out in force, with a record of 384 votes cast in the election.  Steve Demeules emerged victorious, earning reelection with 259 votes to Shelly Alger-Peyton’s 125.

Reports were given on roads, including the fire department, the Palmer Environmental Committee (PEC- Clean-up Day), and the Treasurer’s Report.

Much of the discussion centered on the nearly 28 miles of roads in the township and what to do for maintenance and reconstruction needs.

Demeules noted that in Minnesota, townships have the most miles of roadways, but they are the only jurisdictions that do not receive state aid.

Mitch Wipper talked about the need to “rip the band-aid off” at some point and figure out a way to generate more funds for the roads.

Levying was discussed, along with assessments and bonding.  The general consensus was that something would need to be done with the roads, but it came down to timing and what residents felt was the best option.

Treasurer Roger Johnson reviewed what different levy amounts would mean for the budget.

A motion was made to increase the levy by 4% overall, plus an additional $85,000 for roads, but it was defeated.

Ultimately, a motion to raise the levy by 4% received enough votes to pass.

Several residents asked the board to come with a proposal or options to next year’s meeting, as the roads issue was “kicked down the road.”