Joan Rainville

The Sand Lake Town Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed budget for 2026. The proposed budget includes revenues from general property taxes, fire dues, shared revenue, highway aids, lottery credit, county timber sales, PILT, MFL, licenses and permits, public charges for services, short term rental tax, and miscellaneous sources. Expenditures include general government, general administration, financial administration, general buildings, public safety, public works, highway maintenance, highway construction, equipment outlay, debt service, health and human services, animal control, cemetery, donations, payroll, payroll taxes, miscellaneous expenses and insurance. A special town meeting of the electors is called to approve the total highway expenditure for 2026 and to adopt the 2025 Town tax levy to be collected in 2026.

The meeting included reports from the Chair, Clerk, Deputy Clerk, and Treasurer, covering various administrative and financial updates. Discussions and possible actions were taken regarding an easement request, an assessor contract amendment, and updates on the Town Hall building project. The budget for 2026 was reviewed, and a public budget hearing was scheduled. Additionally, the board approved the payment of bills.

The meeting included a request for an easement through Sand Lake property to a new parcel on Normans Landing Road. Updates were provided on the LRIP Pilot Program, cattail issues at Emerson Bridge, and vandalism at the town hall. Discussions covered the State Trust Fund Loan Process for the new hall and short-term rentals. The Treasurer's Report was presented and accepted. Supervisors reported on window repair quotes and cattail issues. The Road Report addressed cattail issues, gravel hauling, and road patching. The board discussed budgeting for the next road project and potential road staffing for 2026. Bills were approved for payment, including a quote for window repair.

The special town board meeting included discussion on the initial budget workup for 2026, focusing on each of the line items. The Clerk will prepare new documents with detailed numbers for review in November.

The meeting included discussions and possible actions regarding a building design update for a standalone Town Hall facility, an internet project update from Starwire Technologies, and a Bocan statement concerning a CUP for a campground off Hwy 70. The board also reviewed the chair, clerk, deputy clerk, and treasurer reports, as well as reports from supervisors, the planning commission, and the road department. Additionally, the board approved the payment of bills.