The ongoing issue with people damaging roadways was again on the agenda when the Santiago Township Board met on Wednesday August 12th. 

Sergeant Andy Ochs of the Sherburne County Sheriffs Office was at the meeting to provide the sheriff’s report and he noted 67 calls for the service in the last month, including several dumping and numerous speeding complaints.

The county’s portable electronic speed sign has been in use on County Road 11 and the board inquired about keeping the sign permanently.  However, Ochs noted that the signs are in demand throughout the county and he was unsure how much longer it would remain in its current location.  The board decided to look into the possibility of securing an electronic speed sign that could remain in town year round. 

Supervisor David Jehoich addressed Ochs regarding ongoing damage to gravel roadways, especially intersections where vandals are using vehicles and four wheelers to dig deep ruts and creating hazards for drivers.

It is an issue that has been noticed by Supervisor Jeff Pappenfus and Chairman Stuart Nelson as well.

“Every time someone does that, it costs the taxpayer’s money because we have to fix it,” said Pappenfus.

Nelson noted that it is senseless damage and really indicates a lack of civic pride when people destroy the roads that the township works so hard to maintain in a safe manner.

Township road contractor John Herbst agreed that he sees the aftereffects of frequent damage being done to the roads, many times soon after they are graded.

It was apparent that all parties at the meeting are frustrated by the actions of the individuals carrying out this destruction and the supervisors are hoping that residents can help out by reporting any damage that has been done.  Some vehicle descriptions have been provided to authorities, but so far no one has been able to secure a license plate number.

Ochs assured the board that deputies are patrolling the area and when violators are caught, they will be educated (ticketed) to reinforce the importance of following the speed limits and traffic laws.

Road, Fire Reports

Jehoich reported that 62nd St. has been seal coated and potholes have been patched throughout the township.  Starting in September, the second mowing of the ditches will commence.

Matt Weber of the Fire Department reported to the board that 10 calls for service occurred within the township in July, including 6 medicals, 3 fires and 1 automobile accident.  He noted that the department is taking extra precautions to limit firefighter exposure to Covid-19.

Weber and firefighter Steven Reid asked the board about possible CARES act funding that could be accessed for safety gear for the department, as well as the township hall. 

The board directed clerk Kathy Woolard to contact Sherburne County Commissioner Felix Schmiesing to see what the township might qualify for in terms of reimbursable purchases.

Building Repairs

The board next had discussion about needed repairs to the brick siding in the back of the building.  The edge of the building was run into and the bricks have been destroyed.  In further examination of the repairs needed, it was noted that the proper anchors and foundation for the bricks might be lacking.  There are also concerns about moisture getting behind the bricks and into the walls of the building.

Discussion was had about replacing the entire building’s exterior brick, but in the end it was decided that Weber would get a few estimates on the needed repairs for the affected area only.  It was also decided to look into the installation of some corner posts to give the edges of the building added protection.

The town board will meet next on September 9th at 7 p.m. at the town hall.