Rep Jim Newberger attended Clear Lake Township’s monthly meeting June 21 to update the board on the latest state session and introduce Andrew Mathews, who is running for state senate.

 

“The tax bill passed and contains the biggest tax relief we’ve seen in decades,” Newberger informed the board. 

 

The bill repeals taxes on veterans’ retirement benefits, gives commercial industry a property tax exemption on the first $100,000 of their property value, and helps working families and college students. It passed through the house and senate with bipartisan support, but was then vetoed by the governor. Newberger stated there is still hope for it however.

 

He explained the final transportation bonding bill came through with over seven million in transportation funding, passing through the house with broad bi-partisan support, however some of the metro senators wanted more light rail money and started crafting amendments. Time ran out before the bill was finalized.

 

“I fully anticipate there will be a special session,” Newberger said. “I look forward to it, I’m eager to go back and get this work done.” 

 

Broadband funding was passed that will make it available to the entire state.

 

Newberger stated he supports coal and trying to get gas plants and other industries in. He said he wasn’t against solar power, but wants to ensure there is some level of local control.

 

Newberger then introduced Andrew Mathews, who is running for state senate with retiring Sen. Dave Brown’s endorsement. 

 

“The senate does need some new leadership,” said Mathews. “I’m excited about this opportunity and hearing about issues in your community.”

 

Engineer Terrance Vander Eyk reported some errors had been discovered with last month’s bid letting on paving projects, and Hardrives was the actual low bidder not Knife River, which was originally announced.

 

He informed the board Astech was having difficulties obtaining enough granite chips for the township’s chip sealing projects, but said they should be able to begin around mid July. He also informed the board 71st st. was experiencing some road failure, which he believes is due to the road settling as it’s in a swamp area. He indicated he would keep an eye on it and patch as needed.

 

Vander Eyk reviewed 74th st. and believes there is room for potential ditch expansion in some areas although he doesn’t feel it’s necessary. He recommended waiting until fall before any work be done.

 

He performed a survey of the curbing in the cul-de-sac on 37th Ave. and reported it would be a small project that would be done by the end of August. Supervisor Gary Gray asked him to speak to affected property owners before beginning.

 

Jeff Rhodes from Driveway Services LLC informed the board he would start crack sealing in the next couple weeks.

 

Rick Olson requested a tree be removed from the right of way on his 74th st. Long Lake Lane property. The tree is three feet from the road edge and has branches hanging over it. 

 

Treasurer Paul Goenner stated this would be a utility issue and Xcel would remove it if asked. 

 

“If the power company won’t take it out Jeff Rhodes said he would remove it and grind out the stump,” said Supervisor Gray.

 

The board viewed a video of Clear Lake Township Park that was taken by a drone and is currently featured on its website.

 

The sheriff reported 115 calls for service for the month of May, including 66 traffic stops, three thefts, one DUI and a fraud complaint. 

 

The next Clear Lake Township meeting will be July 19 at 7 p.m.