John Willenbring

The board meeting included updates from the Stearns County Sheriff, the town engineer regarding road improvement projects and road standards, and the assessor regarding assessment information and tax capacity rates. Key actions included the approval of an administrative subdivision, a variance request for an RV, and a temporary on-sale liquor license. The board also reviewed department updates, including equipment maintenance, fire department operations, and the status of Sportsman's Park. Additionally, the board discussed and proposed adjustments to the upcoming levy and reviewed financial reports and invoices.

The board conducted its qualification meeting, which included the swearing-in of newly elected officers and the selection of the board chair and vice-chair. The meeting also covered the establishment of the official posting place, official newspaper, and bank depositories for township funds. Key actions included approving the final 2026 levy, setting compensation for various township positions, and designating board members as liaisons to external committees such as the Park Committee, Fire Department, and Tri-City Cable TV Board. Additionally, the board accepted the fee schedule, updated ordinance and resolution books, and reviewed upcoming training opportunities.

The board meeting agenda includes topics such as a presentation by the Stearns County Sheriff, the consideration of a liquor license request for Shady's Longshots, and a review of the property assessment services agreement between the County of Stearns and the township. Further discussions involve updates from the District 5 County Commissioner, the township engineer regarding road and infrastructure projects, and the clerk concerning fee schedules and solar farm escrow studies. The board also plans to review maintenance updates for air patching and seal coating, the treasurer's report including invoices and payroll adjustments, fire department contracts, and transfer documents related to the Sportsman's Park.

The Board discussed and acted upon several operational and administrative items. Key topics included the review of the Pavement Management Plan, the awarding of the construction contract for the Fireside Street Improvement Project, and the approval of a change order for the 188th Street Culvert Replacement. Financial matters addressed included the approval of various payments, the reinvestment of a maturing Certificate of Deposit, and discussion regarding the proposed 2027 tax levy. The Board also conducted the annual audit review for the prior year, made appointments to the Planning Commission, approved a sponsorship for a community cleanup event, and reviewed proposed deed and land purchase agreements for the Sportsman's Park.

The meeting focused on the negotiation of a fire department contract between the City of Cold Spring and several townships. Key topics included a proposed three-year phase-in period for contract payment increases, concerns regarding the rental and multipurpose use of the new fire hall during city hall renovations, and the allocation of capital improvement costs. The group also discussed the potential implementation of a city sales tax to offset construction burdens, the status of contingency bonds, and contract language regarding termination and operational expenses. Furthermore, there was a discussion regarding the feasibility of forming a broader community-based fire district and a review of emergency response coverage areas and response times.