Township of Crane Lake

The Crane Lake Township Community Plan 2016 Update focuses on guiding decisions and investments to influence and coordinate with other governmental entities affecting the township. Key areas include creating a dynamic core for Crane Lake by developing a Voyageurs National Park Visitor Center, campground, state boat access, and redeveloping the former Borderland Resort property. It also aims to enhance the tourism economy, manage community services, and foster partnerships to improve community infrastructure and facilities.

The Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting addressed several property valuation appeals. Decisions included following county recommendations for no change in valuation for several properties due to area-wide increases. The assessor will review appeals for other properties. One appeal was tabled for a later meeting.

The meeting covered several key topics including the approval of the Treasurer’s report and payment of bills. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the VNP-Visitor Center/Campground project, including progress updates, cost overruns, and plans for signage and interior exhibits. Discussions also included the Bayside Drive upgrade, allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds, a McKie easement request, the VNP Ice Road Management Plan, and a presentation on Dark Sky Crane Lake initiatives. The board also discussed a community action plan and the next meeting date.

The meeting included discussion on the land exchange/community property project, with a report indicating issues with mineral rights. A CLWSD report covered treatment plant operations, meetings with representatives from Congressman Cravaack's office and the DNR, and upcoming mediation. The assessor status report was pending. The board reviewed the findings of the St. Louis County Assessment Practices Review Panel, recommending short-term and long-term improvements to the assessment system. Other topics included the Chip Cravaack mobile office visit, street lights on Gold Coast Road, the DNR public water access proposal, and the Jacque Eggen Memorial Fund. A tobacco license was approved for Pine Point Lodge & Resort, Inc. The board also discussed high-speed internet access and the installation of speed humps. Finally, the treasurer's report and payment of bills were approved.

The Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting addressed property assessments for several parcels, making adjustments based on recommendations from St. Louis County Representatives. These adjustments included correcting interior physical attributes of residences, removing assessments for non-existent structures, and changing property classifications.