Tuesday was election day for area townships and Tuesday night officials and citizens gathered for annual meetings and tabulation of the voters.

 

Incumbent Jeff Pappenfus retained his board seat with 21 votes. He ran unchallenged.

 

Clerk Kathy Woolard also received 21 votes and retained her seat on the board.

 

Treasurer Patty Simonsmeier went over the expenses, revenues, rentals and budget in the treasurer’s report. The appropriations for 2019 were set for the following: • General Fund - $77,500; • Road & Bridge Fund - $145,000; • Fire Fund - $75,000; • Park Fund - $5,000 for a total budget of $302,500. 

 

It was noted this budget has seen no changes in the last six years.

 

The 2019 annual meeting and election was designated for March 12 and the Citizen-Tribune designated as the township’s official newspaper.

 

Clean-up Day was put on the calendar for April 28 from 8 a.m. to noon at Centra-Sota Co-op.

 

It was reported the parks committee is looking at several projects for the park including putting lights in at the pavillion, updating the concessions area or adding playground equipment. It was suggested the township could continue to save the money they’ve already accrued or spend now. The committee is looking for suggestions from residents.

 

The Santiago Lions Club will be holding their annual garage sale April 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. outdoors at Bailey Rays. The club is accepting gently-used items with the proceeds benefitting local communities.

 

About a dozen people were in attendance and Stuart Nelson was named moderator for the meeting.

 

Three seats on the Becker Twp. Board were up for election this year. Thirty-five voters cast their ballots during the day with all three incumbents retaining their seats.

 

Joe Danielson, Gary Gilbert and Brian Kolbinger all ran unopposed and  Danielson received 33 votes while Gilbert and Kolbinger received 35 each.

 

 

As accustomed, CentraCare Health gave an annual report and the next annual meeting was scheduled for March 12, 2019 at 8:01 p.m. The Citizen-Tribune was named the official newspaper of the township and township levies were discussed and motioned on.

 

Incumbent Stephen Demeules retained his seat on the Palmer Twp. Board with an unknown total. He ran unopposed.

 

Following the selection of a moderator, the 2017 annual meeting minutes were approved. Roger Johnson gave a treasurer’s report as well as a report for P.E.C. and the tax levy proposal.

 

Demeules gave a report on fire protection while Mike Ganz gave a report on roads, parks and the library/historical society.

 

Richard Larson reported on the gopher bounty and Rosalie Musachio gave an update on the lake association.

 

The floor was opened for questions or concerns and the board of canvass commenced immediately following adjournment.