The Orrock Twp. supervisors continued in their investigation of adding on to town hall during their September meeting. Supervisor Gregg Felber expressed concerns regarding investigating and preserving any historical aspects of the building and the surrounding area. The other supervisors agreed that they would request any architect the town ends up hiring to investigate all needs related to the use of federal funding, such as the history/archeology aspect Felber mentioned. 

The supervisors moved to have the committee work with a few different architects and to award a contract to whomever the committee felt was best qualified to do the job. Again, Felber had concerns. He wanted the architect to be approved by the board as a whole. The other supervisors argued that would slow down the process significantly, as the board only meets once per month. In the end, Felber was outvoted, as the other supervisors in attendance approved the motion.

Sheriff’s Report

Sgt. Luke McLean gave the Sheriff’s report for the month. He reported that, once again, an individual fell for a gift card scam in the area. He reminded everyone that no reputable company or government agency will ever ask for payment in the form of gift cards. 

McLean also reported someone broke a window at Hope Lutheran, likely as a part of an attempted burglary. Another individual tried, and failed, to steal a boat near Ann Lake. 

McLean finished his report by reminding Orrock residents that patrols are in the area and motorists need to slow down and drive safely. 

Road Projects

Road projects for 2021 are wrapped up now, and the township was able to get the work done not only under budget, but under their original budget (the budget was increased to accommodate for an extra project the supervisors added on.)

Kevin Kruger, representative of the town’s engineering firm, was ready to work with the supervisors to get started on planning for 2022 road construction. He felt that, with well-timed maintenance, all the township roads should last another 10-15 years before any need to be reclaimed. Planning will commence during the late fall and early winter, with bids for service going out sometime early 2022, possibly January. 

Transparency

Felber made a request that there be greater transparency in regards to communications that happen outside of meetings. For example, he said he would like to know what exactly is stated by the town’s attorney whenever they are contacted. 

Gary Goldman, town treasurer and former attorney, stated that Felber’s request made some sense, as transparency is important, but he saw no need for it, as official opinions are documented, and it is an increased burden on the township’s very limited staff. 

Felber reiterated his desire for more transparency in regards to emails to the clerk and communications outside of meetings. The other supervisors and staff were uncertain exactly what he meant, and a long discussion ensued, but without any resolution. 

In Other Business, the Board:

• Again hired Daryl Waletzko to take care of winter snow plowing for the township;

• Approved a slight change to the Zimmerman-Livonia Fire contract;

• Received a letter from the county which asked the township to send a copy of any ordinances enforceable by the Sheriff;

• Authorized the town clerk to purchase a new printer, as the old one needed a part replaced and is aged, making a new purchase more cost-effective;

• Noted a couple of upcoming events, including a food shelf distribution Oct. 12 at Lions Park in Big Lake, and hazardous waste collection Oct. 8 and 9 at the Sherburne County Fairgrounds.