Jack Kramer

The joint meeting addressed two primary agenda items. The first involved the 2026 crack seal cost-share project with Washington County. Modifications were approved for the road segments to be sealed, resulting in a net gain of 178 square yards with a total approved amount of $12,500, following discussion on swapping sections based on pavement condition index (PCI) scores. The second major topic was a workshop discussion regarding the 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update scope and process. Consensus was reached to continue using the Planning Commission-led steering committee approach, supplemented by topic-specific focus groups, and to structure public engagement around three key touchpoints throughout the update process.

The meeting commenced with an organizational session where Supervisor Robbins-Fenger was elected as Chair and Supervisor Sinclair as Vice-Chair for 2026. Key organizational actions included adopting the 2026 meeting calendar, designating the Stillwater Gazette as the official newspaper, and approving the 2026 liaison assignments, which maintained the 2025 structure. The Board designated the outside bulletin board as the official posting place for legal notices and authorized the Treasurer, Clerk, Chair, and Vice-Chair as signers for Midwest One Bank accounts. Following the organizational meeting, a public hearing was held to consider ordinance amendments regarding the Fee Schedule (Ordinance No. 197) and changing the Kennel License renewal duration under Ordinance No. 195 to two years. During the regular meeting, the Board discussed attorney updates on remote meeting requirements and municipal donation legal limitations, deciding to table the discussion on donations. Engineer updates covered the jurisdictional transfer request for Stonebridge Trail N. and an overview of the CSAH 11 reconstruction project. The Board approved revisions to the fee schedule and the amendment to Ordinance No. 195. A short-term rental license application for 10877 Mayfield Court North was approved with specified conditions, and a Polasik property subdivision discussion update was provided. The CSO reported on the need to update the ATV/UTV ordinance to address modern Class 2 vehicles. The Treasurer reported on the township's cash reserves and noted ongoing work regarding the Paid Family Leave Act classifications and a deceased former employee's PERA account. Maintenance received approval for a $1,000 budget for multimedia improvements. Finally, the Clerk administered Oaths of Office to the Treasurer and Deputy Clerk and secured approval for purchasing Adobe Pro software.

The meeting involved agenda amendments, including the addition of a Notary Oath for the Town Clerk, discussion on snow plowing complaint procedures, a video surveillance camera request, and tree service proposals. Key discussions included a review of the proposed fee schedule for planning and zoning applications, noting several proposed changes such as new fees for Sign Permits and Site Permits, and renaming the Grading Permit. The Board also reviewed notification of a petition submitted to vacate Slaughter Avenue and the required legal steps, including landowner signatures and public hearing notices. The Treasurer reported the financial status, noting the Road and Bridge Fund was over budget due to storm damage, and approved claims and checks totaling $254,035.01. Discussions covered snow plowing complaint procedures, which were confirmed as working appropriately. Park Manager updates involved illegal dumping removal, delayed wood chip installation at Otto Berg Park, and approval of a $3,555 tree removal proposal for Little Carnelian Park. Robyn Stoller was appointed to the Planning Commission for a two-year term to assist with the 2050 Comprehensive Plan update. An additional security camera installation quote for $1,888 was approved. Under new business, the Board discussed jurisdictional transfer possibilities with Washington County for the major reconstruction of Stonebridge Trail. The Board approved the Browns Creek Watershed District's application for Town Hall use, with fees transitioning from the 2025 to the 2026 schedule starting in February. Finally, the Board agreed to extend the record retention consultant contract for an additional six months.

The Stillwater Township Town Board is considering a variance request to allow the construction of an accessory building before the primary residence is built. The property in question is a 47.4-acre parcel in the Agricultural District. The applicant is planning to build the house sometime in 2023 after the accessory structure is completed. The planner's findings suggest that the request does not fully meet the criteria for a variance, particularly regarding the hardship faced by the landowner and harmony with zoning ordinances. The board has the option to approve, deny, or table the request, with potential conditions for approval to ensure compliance with the zoning ordinance.