Township of Big Lake

The meeting agenda included approval of the consent agenda items, such as the minutes from the December 10, 2025 meeting, a list of claims and payroll, and setting a date for the Local Board of Appeal & Equalization meeting. Key discussions involved receiving the Sheriff's Report and Open Forum for public comments. Town Business covered a Paid Leave Determination. The agenda heavily focused on Reorganizational items, including passing resolutions authorizing contracts with interested officers (Alfords, Aubol, Brenteson, Hayes, Hedstrom), electing the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, appointing the Treasurer, Deputy Treasurer, Clerk, and Deputy Clerk, assigning Board Members to Committees, establishing legal holidays and regular meeting schedules, naming legal counsel, and setting the Gopher Bounty for 2026. Furthermore, authority was granted for staff and officers to handle financial transactions, including paying bills, making EFTs, opening banking accounts, designating depositories for Town and Fire Department funds, and confirming the legal posting location and official newspapers.

The annual meeting covered topics such as the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP), community involvement, joint ownership of the Big Lake Fire Department, business and industry developments including the purchase of land by Lion Industries, LLC and the application by KAP Real Estate Holdings for self-storage units. Elections, the dissolution of the Monticello Hospital District, and road maintenance were also discussed. The treasurer presented the 2024 annual report and the estimated levy for 2026, with a recommendation to reconvene in September to finalize the levy. Later, the meeting reconvened to discuss updates to the proposed 2026 levy, shifting funds from the Fire Building/Equipment fund to the Capital Expenditure fund, and ultimately approving and certifying the 2026 tax levy.

The meeting includes discussion and a call for a motion to set and certify the 2026 Township Tax Levy amounts. The proposed amounts for various funds, including the General Fund, Road and Bridge Fund, Big Lake Fire Fund, and others, are presented. An open forum is scheduled for electorate discussion on levy recommendations and other items.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. The board discussed the regulation of cannabis businesses, opting to align with Sherburne County's ordinance through a joint powers agreement. Bids for the 2025 Overly Projects were reviewed, and the contract was awarded to Knife River Corporation -- North Central. Updates were provided on road maintenance, including tree trimming and the upcoming closure of County Road 83 for reconstruction. The board also discussed emergency warning sirens and the transition of responsibility to the townships. The final ARPA report was submitted, and the Treasurer's Report was reviewed, highlighting the balances in the general and road funds. Additionally, a Scout's Eagle Badge project was discussed, with permission granted to display a placard in the town hall.

The board discussed property valuations for the 2025 assessment year, which will affect property taxes payable in 2026. They reviewed sales ratio studies and adjustments made to land and property valuations, including changes to land classifications. Residential and seasonal improved properties remained stable, while agricultural values saw an increase. The board also addressed appeals from property owners regarding their property valuations, including concerns about landlocked parcels, setback requirements, and hail damage.