Townsend, Town of

The primary business discussed was the Conditional Use Application submitted by Shadian Landscaping for Parcel #042-232312124F, located at 17921 St. Hwy 32. The requested permit is for operating a landscape business, primarily involving the storage of equipment and stockpiles of materials confined within concrete barriers, with a potential future storefront. The Commission noted that the property is zoned General Commercial, the proposal aligns with the Town Vision Statement and Development Strategies, and adequate public facilities can serve the proposed land use. The motion to approve the Conditional Use Application passed.

Key discussions during the meeting included the Treasurer's Report, which involved moving significant funds from the Assessor and Hall & Grounds accounts to the Ambulance fund and available cash. The Ambulance Report noted 19 calls in February and expected new ambulance arrival by May, along with a planned meeting with Lakewood and the Ambulance board regarding irregularities. The Fire Department reported 4 calls since the last meeting, scheduled a training burn, and noted the Silver Cliff Fire Department remains out of service due to insurance issues. Attention shifted to the 4th of July celebration planning by FOTF. The Lake Country Library noted strong item borrowing in 2025. The board unanimously approved a Conditional Use Application for Shadian Landscaping for storage and material stockpiles, contingent on necessary utility updates. They also adopted Resolution 02-2026, urging the Governor and State Legislature to enact a comprehensive, sustainable transportation funding solution due to insufficient state aids. The Board of Review Policies were tabled until April. Regarding Northern Archers, the board requested a layout map and review of the land use agreement before responding to plans for a pavilion and range expansion. The Highway Supervisor announced 5-ton weight limits on Townsend roads starting March 6, potentially lasting up to six weeks. The Annual Meeting of the Electors was set for April 21, 2026. A bizarre piece of correspondence was received from Florida, prompting notification to the sheriff.

Key discussions included the Treasurer's report with a high balance due to tax receipts, requiring approval to pay all outstanding bills. The Ambulance Report detailed ongoing chassis finalization and staffing adjustments. The Fire Department reported recent calls and scheduled a training burn in April. The Lake Country Library noted substantial savings from its solar project. The board approved multiple operator's licenses and one Temporary Beverage License for an event in February 2026. Business items addressed included the approval of Northern Oconto County Ordinance 2026-1 concerning recycling, an update to the Forest Road Agreement with the US Dept. of Ag, Forest Service, and a decision regarding Lithium Battery Disposal, preferring Home Depot as the disposal site. Correspondence included a $7500 donation from the McCaslin Lions for the pickleball court.

Key discussions included the approval of the Treasurer's Report and payment of bills, with approximately 43% of total taxes collected by year-end 2025. The Ambulance Report noted 15 calls in December and that building plans would be sent for state approval with construction anticipated to start in Spring/Summer 2026. The Fire Department reported a total of 50 calls in 2025 and mentioned joint training exercises. The Friends of the Town (FOTF) group is planning a spring raffle and a scholarship. The Lake Country Library's recent book and bake sales were successful, and the director is developing a laptop borrowing policy. The board approved two operator licenses. Business included passing Resolution 01-2026 to rescind the decades-old ordinance governing the assemblage of persons within Townsend, and approving Resolution 02-2026 to refund $1,282.53 in 2025 property taxes to a resident whose home sustained fire damage. The board also clarified the availability of 'Class B' liquor licenses, confirming two regular and one reserve license are currently available for issuance. The need for a resident representative to the County Room Tax Commission was noted, and the possibility of establishing a town service for lithium battery disposal was raised for further investigation.

The Commission addressed key agenda items, including a land division and subsequent rezone request for parcels owned by Michael Maass on No Wapota Drive. The land division proposal, which involved correcting a recording error and splitting one lot, was approved, and the corresponding rezone request for lots 1, 2, and 3 (from RR to R-1 and R-1 to Forest (F)) was also approved. A separate motion was passed to deny the request to waive the 8-foot frontage dedication requirement for N. Wapota Drive. Furthermore, a motion was passed to deny the request by Dennis Hotchkiss for the placement of a 53-year-old mobile home on his property, citing the age and current ordinance restrictions.