During Lynden Twp.’s annual meeting last week, it was announced Dennis Niemi had won a seat on the Lynden Twp. Board of Supervisors, with 124 votes to incumbent Supervisor Jerry Finch’s 59. 

 

Clerk Jenny Schmidt, who was running unopposed, retained her seat.

 

Brian Nickolauson was nominated moderator. Treasurer Dan Torgerson gave the treasurer’s report, informing attendees that although total 2017 revenue was down from the previous year, the year-end balance was up and total spending was down 38%. A motion passed approving the report.

 

A motion passed approving the proposed 2019 levy of $353,577, which includes $190,000 for road and bridge, $90,000 for general government, $60,041 for the Clearwater fire contract and $13,536 for the Annandale fire contract. The levy is a slight increase from 2018.

 

A discussion was held concerning the possible consolidation of trash haulers in the township, which originated after an inquiry was made about the issue by Republic Waste Services, who handles the township’s recycling, during the township’s February meeting.

 

Ackerman explained the township has always supported a free enterprise system. After news of the possible consolidation ran in the Citizen-Tribune, the board received a number of phone calls, letters and emails from residents expressing the desire to keep it that way.

 

When asked about potential savings, she said they had been quoted a rate of $15 per household, however, if residents voted for the consolidation, a request for proposals would be issued.

 

Numerous residents expressed concerns the company would raise rates at a later date, and that small businesses would have to close and there would be no competition.

 

Other residents expressed interest in going out to bid, some stating they were looking for savings and that they were paying taxes for the road maintenance that was needed due to the increased number of loaded trash haulers.

 

A motion made to send out a request for proposal for the purpose of gathering information to explore the possibility of consolidating trash haulers failed to pass.

 

The Annandale Fire Dept. proposed a fire levy of $13,536, a 5.9% increase and the Clearwater Fire Dept. proposed a fire levy of $72,816, a 33.4% increase. Supervisor Anne Ackerman informed residents the township board proposed they instead approve the levy at $60,041, a 10% increase.

 

She stated they have no intention of cancelling their contract with Clearwater; the township’s issue is with the large increase requested without any meetings between the affected parties.

 

Ackerman and Supervisor Dave Johnson expressed gratitude for the services of both departments.

 

Ackerman explained the Beaver Island Trail would be extended in the next couple of years, running from St. Cloud to Clearwater along Co. Rd. 75. The township has received just over $7,500 in funds over the past 10 years that is designated for new park-type initiatives, and she proposed it be earmarked for the trail.

 

A motion passed to use up to $7,500 in dedicated funds to donate to the Beaver Island Trail, leaving the decision of the final amount up to the board to determine at a later date.

 

Ackerman informed attendees the township is looking for a deputy clerk, a deputy treasurer and future members for the planning commission. Interested parties should contact the clerk.

 

Ackerman explained the township’s plan to add a photo gallery to their website and encouraged residents to submit their photographs. 

 

Motions were made and approved designating the Citizen-Tribune the official newspaper, Couri & Ruppe as attorney, Republic Waste Services for recycling, depositories as Lake Central Bank and Sherburne State Bank, and the donation of $2,000 in annual support to the Clearwater Public Library.

 

Clean-up day is set for April 28 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Clearwater maintenance facility.

 

The next Lynden Twp. annual meeting will be March 12, 2019 at 8 p.m.