Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                                  March 5th, 2026          
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The March 2026 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 6:59pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from February board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders via Marcus Johnson – River Clean Up is scheduled for 4/25/26 from 9a-11a, fellow commissioners have been asked to join

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – not present at March meeting

5. Planning Commission Update

   1. Will start meeting again in March 2026, will be looking into data centers, and how that will fit in, these are happening in other areas

6. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Ice is melting, may be able to start blading and bringing in edges

   2. Marcus noted that there have been a record number of cars in the ditch on 265th, can we add a “slow down” or “curve” sign?

      1. Darwin noted that we can do this, will be added to April agenda

   3. Road tour date will be set at April board meeting

7. Hearings (as required) - none

8. Building permit requests (2) – Planning Commission members: Darwin, Mike, Tom, Andy

   1. Colin Doffing 17016 Welch Short Cut

      1. Home addition $275,000; 128’ and more than 300’ from property line, meets all setbacks

      2. Planning Commission: Mike Creglow made a motion to recommend for approval, Tom Ryan seconded, motion passed unanimously

      3. Board: Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

      4. $270 building permit fee was paid, and permit was issued

   2. Luke Riveness 15019 202nd St Way

      1. 50’x80’ shop for storage $125,000

      2. Parcel is 4.92 acres, this is permittable usage

      3. Planning Commission: Mike Creglow made a motion to recommend for approval, Tom Ryan seconded, motion passed unanimously

      4. Board: Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

      5. $120 fee was paid, and permit was issued

9. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

10. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov – no updates at this time. Clerk needs to do more research

11. Public comments

    1. Ken Slingsby asked if copies of minutes will be added to township website. Clerk indicated that this will be updated

12. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

13. Meeting adjourned at 7:31pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                         February 5th, 2026       
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The February 2026 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 6:59pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from January board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

   1. Voided checks

      1. Check number 5007-2 SSD account

      2. Check number 5076-1 township account

3. Board of Audit – Each supervisor chose a receipt and a claim for treasurer to verify at end of meeting

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Office – Deputy in attendance, no information to share. Weather related calls and crashes.

5. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – not present at February meeting

6. Planning Commission Update – no meeting in December, suspended until March 2026

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Some gravel showing, watching the roads and weather

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests

   1. Bob Ryan 13789 Hwy 61

      1. Addition on home, 15x33’ addition, same size as deck

      2. Planning Commission members reviewed first (Andrew, Thomas, Darwin) and recommended for approval

      3. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

      4. $110,000 project. $110 permit fee paid, permit issued

   2. Adam Bauer remodel at property on Welch Trail

      1. No permit needed from Township for internal remodel with no change in footprint. County had requested that prior permit be amended to state this. Issued new permit, stating no fee

10. Current bills

    1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov – no updates at this time. Clerk needs to do more research

    2. Annual meeting:

       1. Approve agenda – motion made by Aaron Bauer to approve annual meeting agenda, seconded by Marcus Johnson. Motion passed unanimously

       2. Moderator pay – motion made by Aaron Bauer to set moderator pay at $50, seconded by Andrew Jenson. Motion passed unanimously

       3. Set second alternate date for election – motion made by Marcus Johnson to set second alternate date for Township Election as 03/24/2026, seconded by Aaron Bauer. Motion passed unanimously

    3. Township Election. Resolution signed for election judges and ballot board. Motion to sign resolution made by Marcus Johnson, seconded by Andrew Jenson. The motion passed unanimously. Judges approved are Jennifer Piehl, Darwin Fox, Elizabeth Pasch, Christopher Sampson, Mike Creglow, Mari Mellick, Deb Fjetland, and Jessica Jacobson. These are all current trained election judges to allow for alternates

    4. Levy 2027 – general discussion regarding each fun, noted to speak to Cristina at Bolten and Menk about Prairie Island Blvd before the road tour this year, for planning purposes

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to keep the levy as it was for 2026, seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously; this will be voted on at the annual meeting

          1. General $9000.00

          2. Road and Bridge $250,000.00

          3. Fire $65,000.00

    5. Letter from Cincinnati Insurance Company – Notice to Policyholders – Exclusion of Loss Due to Virus or Bacteria. Supervisors reviewed letter and decided this is a general notice, no action needed

12. Board of Audit: Treasurer presented documentation for all receipts and claims that supervisors chose at the beginning of the meeting. Supervisors initialed all items on Board of Audit Report. Levy amounts were added to Board of Audit Report and report was signed by all supervisors

13. Fire contract was signed, and will be emailed to Miesville Clerk by Clerk Jessica Jacobson

14. Public comments

    1. Kelly Taylor was in attendance with concerns about 130th plowing. He takes care of the assisted living facility plowing. Aaron Bauer had called Kelly about pushing snow across the road. Kelly states he only plows on the property. Marcus Johnson noted that he has seen snow pushed onto the public right of way. Kelly requested the state statute regarding not being allowed to do so. This was given to Kelly 160.2715a1. Kelly asked if we are adopting any ordinances about plowing. It was explained that the Township relies on state statute regarding this. Kelly also asked about elections, how to get on the ballot, etc. Clerk Jessica Jacobson answered these questions

15. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

16. Meeting adjourned at 8:06pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          January 8th, 2026        
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The January 2026 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 6:59pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from December board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. Thomas updated supervisors that he contacted Vermillion Bank about CD rates, and their rate is lower than our current CD’s at Edward Jones.

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Received notes and slides from Public Works meeting held at Welch Town Hall, copy of power point given to Clerk. Construction estimated at two months. Contact Alex Dicke at Goodhue County Public Works with questions.

      2. Angie Craig funding for broadband will not be available for Welch Township, going to 5 other townships in Goodhue County

      3. Association of MN Counties, information regarding ambulance services given to fire chief

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Final pay request, everything has been completed at about $80,000 under budget

   2. Final amount due $70,470.56

   3. Supervisors asked about possible stop sign at elder center. Per Cristina, this has been discussed, but not sure where tribe is at with it. Noted that PIIC has a new Public Works Director. Cristina will send contact information

   4. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay final pay request for 130th Ave in the amount of $70,470.56, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

   5. Prairie Island Blvd

      1. Just reapplied for LRIP, tribes no longer eligible due to reduced funding

      2. State has reached out to PIIC to discuss different funding options

5. Red Wing Fire Chief Mike Warner

   1. Chief Mike Warner was in attendance along with Chris Heineman of the City of Red Wing (city administrator)

   2. General information: Red Wing Fire Dept provides ambulance service to Welch Township, five fire fighters are also paramedics, they have two fire stations, receive 4400 calls per year (81 to Welch), ambulance area is determined by the state

   3. Funding is a challenge for all of MN because of Medicare/Medicaid mandate/capped rates, 72% of calls are Medicare Medicaid

      1. More contacts to legislators would be helpful

   4. Were able to get some legislation passed for some additional funding, but it doesn’t fill the gap. Rate cap has been there forever, but costs continue to increase while rates do not inflate at the same rate

   5. Red Wing Fire Department budget is just fine, it is the ambulance budget that is suffering

   6. Noted by supervisors that Welch Township has had a loss of property tax revenue to PIIC purchasing land, and pays $84,000 to Miesville Fire

   7. Budget gap that they are trying to fill:

      1. 2023 data - $939k loss

      2. Increasing levy to City of Red Wing, but they also provide services outside of the city

      3. Number needed is less than $30k from Welch Township, calculated per capita and includes PIIC

      4. Noted that this is only conversation at this point

   8. Attending meetings with all townships, Welch was first, can attend later meetings as this will be a long conversation

   9. Questions asked:

      1. Has state cost shifting had an effect on this? No

      2. Is RWFD doing any fund raising? No, they are utilizing grants, and city resident tax revenue

      3. What is their audit frequency? Yearly, and ambulance billing service has a separate internal audit

      4. Miesville Fire had 83 calls last year for Welch Township – how many were PIIC? Hard to know

      5. Could RW ambulance do some grant writing? On behalf of Welch Township? There is not a lot out there. Can do for equipment, but not as much for services

      6. How many calls for Vasa?  44 calls last year and more this year

6. Planning Commission Update – no meeting in December, suspended until March 2026

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Ice on the roads, has been bad but not too many people in the ditch, PIIC has been doing some plowing on Township roads that is causing drifts, the Tribe has been contacted

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests - none

10. Current bills

    1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov

       1. Additional questions after review of instructions

       2. Clerk will connect with Mike Creglow

    2. March Township Election – affidavit of candidacy can be filed between 12/30/25 and 1/13/25. Supervisor and Clerk are up for election

    3. Claim document

       1. 190th Ave Way – sign taken out, insurance company wants estimate

       2. Determined that this is not our sign, belongs to DNR

       3. Marcus will contact insurance company

    4. Data Centers - FYI

       1. Marcus contact township attorney – we would have to put moratorium in place, then would have a year to discuss

       2. Right now zoning doesn’t allow, unless on commercial property. Township only has two commercial properties

       3. Company could buy farm land and request zoning change

       4. There was no further discussion nor any decision made at this time

12. Public comments – there were none

13. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:11pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                        December 4th, 2025     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The December 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from November board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

   1. Jessica to ask Erickson Engineering/Wheeler Lumber about payment status. Received new bill but Jessica received email that account was paid in full. Also ask difference between Erickson Engineering and Wheeler Lumber (same address)

   2. Thomas noted that one CD came due at $34000, and was renewed at $36000. CDs continue to have better interest rate than checking account

   3. Thomas will inquire to Vermillion Bank about CDs they offer and what the interest rates are

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Truth in taxation happened Tuesday, is posted on County website

         1. If anyone has questions on property taxes contact county asap

      2. 2026 Levy for Goodhue County is 6.5%, and will potentially be 20% for 2027

         1. Budget workshops for 2027 will begin early in  2026

         2. Increases are due to cost shifting from state to county

         3. Marcus suggested county utilizing Beacon for property information, many other counties utilize, allowing reduction in staff

         4. Liz asked if there is any discussion on attracting businesses to Goodhue County

            1. Linda: Goodhue is an agricultural county and can only bring in ag businesses unless zoning changes

         5. County hasn’t grown much, but costs continue to increase

         6. County has had discussion on data centers, there is a tax advantage, but lots of drain on electricity and water

         7. No easy answer to the tax levy increase, send any ideas to Commissioner Flanders

   2. Sheriff’s Office – Deputy in attendance

      1. No news to share from Sheriff’s Office, deputy Scanlan was in attendance

4. Miesville Fire – Steven Meyer and Brandon Napper

   1. Handout provided with 1/1/25-11/30/25 data

   2. Welch Township is 68% of their budget, most of their service is to Welch Township

   3. Welch residents are not charge for services, this is paid through their Welch budget

5. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – not in attendance at December meeting, plans to attend in January with final payment request

6. Planning Commission Update – Liz Pasch

   1. There were no guests, general discussion only

   2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to suspend Planning Commission meetings until March 2026, Andrew Jenson seconded, the motion passed unanimously

      1. Any requests for building permits will be directed to the Clerk, and will come to a board meeting where Planning Commission and Supervisors will review. No additional charges will be added, because of the suspension of Planning Commission meetings

7. Road Update – Information from Darwin, presented by Marcus Johnson

   1. Blading and minimal maintenance being done

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests - none

10. Current bills

    1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov – no updates at this time

    2. Sirens

       1. Jessica to follow up with Dakota Electric to make sure billing is set up

    3. January town board meeting

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to change the January 2026 Board meeting to 1/8/26. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

          1. Jessica to post this at the town hall

    4. Advanced Septic – no current contract

       1. Aaron talked to Ben at Advance Septic

          1. Everything is up to date

          2. Tanks have been pumped

          3. Ben will get back to Aaron about contract

    5. Current building and zoning ordinance – Website needs to be updated – Jessica will do this

    6. PFML resolution

       1. Resolution was signed regarding PFML that beginning 1/1/26, the Township shall contribute 100% of the total Paid Leave premium for each eligible employee

    7. Marcus Johnson received call and email from Mark Napeck

       1. Needs to do work on tower, new infrastructure on tower and hang things on fence

       2. There is no change to structure size

       3. No building permit needed

       4. Marcus will respond to him

    8. Fire contract needs to be signed and emailed

12. Public comments – there were none

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email from Public Works about using Town Hall for their public meeting regarding bridge replacements

       1. Andrew Jenson will light the furnace for the meeting – 12/18/25 at 6pm

    2. Email from Mike Warner/Red Wing Fire Chief requesting meeting

       1. Will attend January Board Meeting

       2. Jessica will email date and time to Mike

Meeting adjourned at 8:12pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                        November 6th, 2025     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The November 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson at 6:59pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from October board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Fourth budget workshop completed, because of cost shifting, 6.5% levy for 2026, looking at 17% for 2027

      2. Road tour last week, looked at two bridges on County 7 Blvd, Jess Greenslade will come to meeting and meet with clerk

      3. Getting calls about hunting rifles vs. shotguns, forward any concerns for feed back to Linda

   2. Sheriff’s Office – Deputy in attendance

      1. No news to share from Sheriff’s Office, deputy was in attendance

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – not in attendance at November meeting

5. Planning Commission Update – Andrew Jenson

   1. There were no guests, general discussion only

6. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Blading being done, mowing 98% done, brushing needs to be done before winter, need to get some signs up, 115th & 225th work complete

   2. Andrew mentioned that someone called about bridge marker on 145th

      1. Darwin will check on this

7. Hearings (as required) - none

8. Building permit requests - none

9. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

10. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov – no updates at this time

    2. Sirens

       1. Jessica is working with Dakota Electric to set up billing

       2. Billing with Goodhue County Coop Electric is set up

       3. Jessica to email maintenance company to start 1/1/26

       4. Aaron requested list of premise numbers for sirens – Jessica will email

    3. Jessica requested to sign up for training with MAT – supervisors approved

    4. PFML – New benefit required by MN law beginning 2026. Thomas presented information, and asked supervisors to decide how much of the premium the Township would like to pay

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion for the township to pay 100% of the premium for PFML, Andrew Jenson seconded, the motion passed unanimously

11. Public comments

    1. Mike Creglow – Data Centers

       1. Mike expressed concern that data centers are popping up, especially in townships. This is causing electric bills to increase, and also involves substantial water usage. Does the township need to look at changing the comprehensive plan or zoning to prevent this?

       2. It was noted that a data center would need to be on commercially zoned property

          1. Andrew suggested that the township could check in with attorney regarding this concern

       3. Commissioner Flanders noted that this can be attractive due to increase in property taxes

12. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email from Goodhue County Public Works regarding 2026 Bituminous work

       1. Was discussed by supervisors, Welch Township does not wish to participate

    2. Road mileage form was sent back to Goodhue County by Jessica

    3. Email from Alex Dicke at Goodhue County regarding Culvert 25J18 plan review – was forwarded to supervisors

13. Meeting adjourned at 7:45pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          October 2nd, 2025       
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The October 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from September board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. NOTE: Check #5009 from 130th account has been voided

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Preliminary budget has been approved with 6.5% increase (this could be reduced)

      2. Zoning was a topic at the last meeting

         1. County hasn’t reviewed in 15 years and is considering re-reviewing

         2. Are any Welch residents interested in changes?

   2. Sheriff’s Office – Deputy in attendance

      1. No news to share from Sheriff’s Office

      2. Was shared that a resident had suspicious vehicle at their property and person was looking around the house. Deputy confirmed that they had been notified and is being followed up on, extra patrolling. Please call if there is anything suspicious

      3. Was also shared that residents have concerns of speeding and reckless driving in the area

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Not present at October meeting, plans to attend in November

   2. Traffic Study for 130th

      1. Andrew Jenson spoke with MAT

         1. If “door to door” is 300 feet or less, that would warrant a speed zone, or

         2. Could do a traffic study

         3. Marcus measured property distances online during meeting, and appears to be greater than 300 feet

         4. It was noted that traffic has not been terrible

         5. No action taken at this time

5. Planning Commission Update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were no guests, general discussion only

6. Goodhue County Planning Commission Update – none given

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. All mowing is done except new stuff on 130th

   2. Blading done after heavy rains

   3. Ditching done over hills on 155th

      1. SEMN Wifi has had to come out and move fiberoptic lines deeper

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests

   1. Adam Bauer 17250 228th St Way

      1. Adding garage to farm property, attached garage 28x30’ on west side of house

      2. Meets all setbacks

      3. Planning Commission members in attendance: Liz, Darwin, Mike, Tom

         1. Mike Creglow made a motion to recommend for approval, Liz Pasch seconded, motion passed unanimously

      4. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

      5. Fee will be $250 for Planning Commission because this was not brought to a Planning Commission meeting in advance, plus $25 building permit (ag), total $275

      6. Adam will bring check to Clerk’s home and she will sign permit at that time

10. Current bills

    1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov

       1. Reviewed that some direction was given in a recent MAT magazine issue. Townships have until 6/1/26 to move to a .gov website. A link to the website to apply for one was included. Jessica will investigate

    2. Utility Installation Fee

       1. Jessica was able to locate during meeting that a motion was passed in December 2023 to implement this with an open fee. Goodhue County has provided a form to use for utility permit. Jessica to add this form to webiste

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email from Jack at MN Notification Solutions regarding status

       1. No update yet, likely soon

    2. Contract update form – will send to Cristina for assistance

    3. Voicemail from Sherry/Xcel Energy, needs invoicing information

       1. Need to contact Dakota Electric and Goodhue County Cooperative

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:14pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                       September 4th, 2025     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The September 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from July board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. NOTE: Checks 7049 and 7114 were voided

   2. Comments from Treasurer

      1. First State Bank: Two checks left to clear, then one signature needed to close out accounts

      2. Vermillion Bank: Forms have been signed. They guarantee any amount above federally insured limit

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Conference put on by BEAD re: broadband

         1. Mike Creglow attended and gave contact information to Linda, she is setting up Zoom meeting

      2. Levy’s are in the news, note that counties don’t want to raise levy at this level

         1. Draft levy for Goodhue County is at 9.9%, this is not doable

      3. Fraud at state level (from prior township meeting)

         1. The state is looking into this (the state functions reactionarily)

   2. Sheriff’s Office – Travis/night supervisor in attendance

      1. They currently have two vacant positions, waiting for approval to hire

      2. Complaint of jet boat on Cannon River, this is not prohibited by the DNR

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Request for payment from LRIP funds in the amount of $88,026.33 for 130th project

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to move forward with payment from LRIP funds as requested. Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

      2. Jessica Jacobson signed authorization for payment

   2. 130th project notes/updates

      1. Supervisor asked if the silt fence can be removed so ditches can be mowed

      2. October Board Meeting will hopefully be the final payment request

      3. There is a 2-year warranty on everything for this project

      4. Supervisor noted that there was a big rain and there was no water coming out of tile line, this will need to be watched (not part of this project)

      5. Andrew Jenson spoke to Sheriff Marty Kelly about speed limit

         1. Marty stated that township roads are 55 mph, but will do more research, he is unsure if we can make the speed limit lower

            1. Darwin Fox stated that we would need to have MNDOT do a traffic study

               1. Cristina noted that we would need a resolution to request a traffic study, she will send contact information

5. Planning Commission Update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were no guests, general discussion only

6. Goodhue County Planning Commission Update – none given

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Ditches look great – mowing; blading as needed; tree clean up a few weeks ago; a little chloride applied

   2. Aaron Bauer stated that 225th needs work

      1. Erosion on both sides, requested this be fixed

      2. Aaron will call SE MN Wifi because the fiber optic line is too shallow

   3. Fjetland property – Jessica Jacobson received email from Deb Fjetland regarding condition of 225th

      1. Discussion from supervisors/road maintenance:

         1. There is no culvert in driveway and no crown

         2. Fiber optic line is where culvert should be

         3. Road maintenance pushed gravel back up

         4. Condition reviewed by road maintenance and supervisors and found not to be a township issue

         5. Marcus Johnson with meet with the Fjetlands on site to explain

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests - none

10. Current bills

    1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov

       1. Tom provided Jessica with information regarding website compliance. Will be reviewed and on the agenda for October

    2. SSD Rates (20 total hookups)

       1. Last year was $400/yr for residential and $500/yr for commercial

       2. Information from Aaron:

          1. 2021 – replaced pumps and controls in Cannon River Inn parking lot

          2. 2023 – replaced pump and controls by the creamery

          3. Should be good for 20 years

          4. Called Ben at Advanced Septic with no response, will keep trying, maybe consider finding a new contractor

       3. Aaron Bauer made motion to leave the septic annual charges the same as 2025. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       4. A resolution was completed – Jessica to send to Goodhue County with assessments

    3. 2026 Levy

       1. Fire/Ambulance was at $65,000 last year and fund has remained steady

       2. Road/Bridge has an increasing balance with good trajectory

       3. No discussion on General fund

       4. Andrew Jenson made a motion to keep the levy the same as 2025, Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       5. Jessica will complete certification and send to Goodhue County

    4. Updated/new ordinance – Marcus provided updated/new ordinance to the Township attorney to record

    5. Furnace schedule – supervisors agreed that a schedule is not needed, and they will be sure the furnace is on for meetings

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email from Deb Fjetland regarding condition of 225th – see notes above in road update

    2. Email from Alex Dicke with questions regarding sewer/water – Aaron Bauer spoke with him

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                           August 7th, 2025         
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The August 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:02pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from July board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. NOTE: Check 7113 was voided

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Budget workshop starts Tuesday, draft received today

      2. Looking for someone to sit on the Park Board in January 2026, three year commitment, meets quarterly

   2. Sheriff’s Office – in attendance, nothing to report. Have been some grass fires on County 18

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Request for payment from LRIP funds in the amount of $188,007.33 for 130th project

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to move forward with payment from LRIP funds as requested. Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

      2. Jessica Jacobson signed authorization for payment

   2. 130th project tracking under budget, everything covered by grant at this point

   3. Culverts need to be cleaned out, and striping/signage needs to be completed

5. Planning Commission Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Quiet meeting with general discussion, no permits requested

6. Goodhue County Planning Commission Update – none given

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Blading as needed, wrapped up mowing, tree removal after storm, maintenance being done at minimum

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests

   1. Marcus Johnson 165th, was at 6/26/25 Planning Commission Meeting

      1. Shelter over saw mill, sloping roof, 16’x46’

      2. West side of property, meets all setbacks

      3. Planning Commission recommended for approval

      4. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve building permit, Aaron Bauer seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Marcus Johnson abstained from vote

10. Current bills

    1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron  Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov

       1. No update at this time, must be done by 2026

    2. Revised Building and Zoning Ordinance

       1. Cannabis – 1000 foot setback, Building 30 foot setback

       2. Ordinance reviewed and signed by chair and clerk

          1. Marcus will work with Township attorney to have revised ordinance recorded

    3. Escrow agreement/account

       1. Escrow account has been set up at Vermillion Bank. Treasurer set up, all members have signed. First State Bank could not do escrow account Marcus Johnson met with them

    4. Change banks – from First State Bank to Vermillion Bank

       1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to discontinue banking at First State Bank and migrate accounts to Vermillion Bank. Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

          1. Thomas Ryan will work on changing direct deposits

          2. Aaron Bauer will call First State Bank

    5. Close out 2025 Annual Meeting – no further discussion on any items from the Annual Meeting

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to close out the Annual Meeting for 2025. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:46pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                              July 3rd, 2025            
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The July 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from June board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Clerk Jessica Jacobson for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Cuts coming: low income energy assistance frozen, some road/bridges frozen, broadband program terminated, STS program discontinued by the state

         1. Goodhue County will keep STS program going due to cost effectiveness

      2. Health and Human Services issued report to the community

   2. Sheriff’s Office – in attendance, nothing to share

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Request for payment from LRIP funds in the amount of $337,089.45 for 130th project

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to move forward with payment from LRIP funds as requested. Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

      2. Jessica Jacobson signed authorization for payment

5. Planning Commission Update – Darwin Fox

   1. No update given

   2. Per minutes, three building permits were requested

      1. Devon Wittman for new residential construction – approval recommended

      2. Marcus Johnson to install roof and side walls over saw mill. Also plans to build chicken coop and to plat his property. Permit for roof and walls over saw mill was recommended for approval. Permit for coop not needed. It was noted that signature of Welch Township Chair is required by Goodhue County for platting process.

      3. Adam Bauer for concrete walkway/sidewalk/porch – approval recommended

6. Goodhue County Planning Commission Update – none given

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Working on roads

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests

   1. Adam Bauer 14683 Welch Trail – 6’ concrete walkway/sidewalk on front and side of building, 7’ covered porch on front and side of building. Footprint of structure remains the same. Planning Commission recommended for approval

      1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit. Andrew Jenson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

      2. $25 fee was paid for building permit, value of project $15,000

   2. Devon Wittman 244th St Way – 28’x56x home with walkout basement and attached 30’x36’ garage. Meets all setbacks. Awaiting site visit from well company. Planning Commission recommended for approval.

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve building permit. Marcus Johnson seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

      2. $490 fee was paid for building permit, value of project $493,000

10. Current bills

    1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Bleu Dog Café – Britton Good was present at meeting regarding structure to the rear of the restaurant. He clarified that this is a storage shed. It is not attached and is on skids. Andrew Jenson confirmed that a permit is not needed for this. It was mentioned that the shed is diverting water to the neighboring property. Britton will add a gutter and catch basin to deal with the water.

    2. Change of website to .gov

       1. No update at this time, must be done by 2026

    3. Revised Building and Zoning Ordinance – TABLED

       1. It was requested that Jessica email resolution regarding setback change and cannabis ordinance to the Town Board and Planning Commission to be reviewed before next Planning Commission and Board meetings

    4. Escrow agreement/account – Tom Ryan to contact Gorman and Lodermeier

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:41pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                             June 5th, 2025           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The June 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Aaron Bauer, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from May board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Clerk Jessica Jacobson for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Office

      1. Nothing to report

      2. Supervisors mentioned concern about speeding motorcycles (safety)

   2. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Mississippi clean up: Total of 3000+ volunteers, 22,000 pounds of garbage (196 bags), 174 pounds of recycling. Copy of report given to supervisors

      2. Government grants for broadband – none put in for Welch Township

      3. Monday there is a broadband summit at the county 1:30-3:30. Commissioner Flanders will advocate for Welch Township

      4. Pay attention to state budget

         1. Mandated cost shares are being shifted to counties

         2. STS program could be cut

         3. Cuts to Human Services

4. Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – Tim Adler in attendance on Cristina’s behalf

   1. Request for payment from LRIP funds in the amount of $589,095.47

   2. Project 50% complete

   3. Week of 6/17 for curb, week after that for paving

   4. Will get driveways tied in better

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to move forward with payment from LRIP funds as requested. Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

5. Planning Commission Update – Darwin Fox

   1. One request for agricultural storage structure

      1. Jeff King 267th Street

      2. Meets all setbacks

      3. Recommended for approval

   2. Information discussion

6. Goodhue County Planning Commission Update – none given

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Have been blading

   2. Finishing discing and seeding

   3. 85% of chloride is down (tubing route done)

   4. Will need to start mowing soon

8. Hearings (as required) - none

9. Building permit requests

   1. Jeff King 267th Street – purchasing 2.5 acres from neighbor, building a 60’x110’ agricultural building, he is applying for land split with the county, complies with all setbacks

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

      2. $25.00 building permit fee paid for agricultural building permit

10. Current bills

    1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov

       1. No update at this time, must be done by 2026

       2. Websites to review – Haycreek, Vasa, Warsaw – all have nice, easy to navigate sites

    2. Revised Building and Zoning Ordinance – TABLED

12. Public comments

    1. Resident asked if letter had been mailed to Bleu Dog Café regarding new structure – has not yet been mailed. Clerk will send

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:34pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                              May 1st, 2025           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The May 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:02pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from April board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Clerk Jessica Jacobson for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Office

      1. Calls steady, but nothing concerning

   2. Commissioner Flanders – information presented by Marcus Johnson

      1. Mississippi Clean Up went well

      2. State budget

         1. Costs shift to counties, also cuts to funding

            1. Cost will fall to property taxes

         2. Commissioner Flanders emailed flyer. Contact Jessica Jacobson if interested in receiving a copy

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – no update at this time

5. Planning Commission Update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were three request for permits

      1. John Otto – meets setbacks, planning commission recommended for approval

      2. Kris and Kevin Peterson, planning commission recommended for approval

      3. Mark and Christina Bigelow, planning commission recommended for approval

   2. There was no other discussion

   3. Comment from Planning Commission: Bleu Dog has a structure on the north side of property. It is a separate structure from the restaurant with the roof hanging over to neighboring property. No permit has been requested. Requested that Clerk Jacobson send letter to owners regarding this structure and to request they attend a board meeting

6. Goodhue County Planning Commission Update – none given

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Blading after rain, extra traffic with detour and construction, seeding on Welch Short Cut, will hold at essential blading, watching spots that need rock

   2. Chloride this year, Ross Nelson of Welch Mill Canoe and Tubing in attendance regarding this

      1. Township will do 50/50 cost as in the past, Ross is ok with this

         1. 6 miles of road for tubing route

      2. Marcus Johnson made a motion to cost share chloride at 50/50 with Welch Mill Canoe and Tubing for 6 miles of tubing route. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

8. Hearings (as required)

   1. At 7:23pm, the board meeting was recessed, and public hearing opened regarding cannabis ordinance an amendment to building setback ordinance

      1. Cannabis Ordinance

         1. Planning Commission has proposed that there be a 1000 foot setback from any residence for the growing or processing of cannabis.

            1. This is only allowed on commercial properties. Welch Township has two commercial properties

         2. Public comment:

            1. Does this affect personal growing of cannabis – NO

            2. Do we know the difference between cannabis and hemp? – Hemp is agricultural

            3. Chairman asked three times for further public comment

            4. Public comment closed at 7:32pm

         3. Aaron Bauer made a motion to adopt an ordinance for growing/processing cannabis with 1000 foot setback from any dwelling. Motion passed unanimously

            1. Have attorney write ordinance

      2. Amend setbacks

         1. Town Board looking to reduce set back from 100 feet to 30 feet for buildings with no animals

            1. This will align with Goodhue County setbacks

            2. For building with animals, the set back will remain 100 feet

            3. Reason: Township doesn’t govern subdivision splits, and township receives multiple requests for variances

            4. Public comment:

               1. Darwin brought this up many years ago. At that time, supervisors were not interested. This will make building easier for residents

               2. 7:39pm public comment was closed

            5. Andrew Jenson made a motion to amend the township set building setback from 100 to 30 feet to align with Goodhue County with the exception of buildings with animals. Motion passed unanimously

   2. At 7:40pm the hearing was closed, and board meeting reopened

9. Building permit requests

   1. Kris & Kevin Peterson (Steve on their behalf) replacing deck with smaller one

      1. Project cost $11,000

      2. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit, Aaron Bauer seconded. Motion passed unanimously

      3. $25 fee paid, building permit issued

   2. John Otto building shed (agricultural)

      1. Meets setbacks per planning commission

      2. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve building permit, Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      3. $25 fee was paid, building permit issued

   3. Mark & Christina Bigelow (Aaron Bauer on their behalf) building 38’x52’ shed for agricultural use

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve building permit, Marcus Johnson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      2. Fee will be $25. The Bigelows will connect with Clerk Jacobson to pay fee and obtain permit

10. Current bills

    1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills with the addition of bill from Luhman’s Construction that was presented at the meeting, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

11. Items for discussion

    1. Change of website to .gov

       1. Email sent to MAT for guidance, Clerk Jacobson has been added to email list by person at MAT assisting with this transition. More to come

    2. Siren Update

       1. Response received from Earl at Emergency Management with Goodhue County

          1. Unknown when Xcel will end siren service, waiting on FEMA approval, will update us ASAP

       2. Clerk Jacobson corrected donation form and sent to Xcel

    3. SE MN WIFI (Linda Flanders)

       1. New project going in direction of Welch. Interested parties should contact Nick at SE MN WIFI

       2. Marcus Johnson suggested the Nick do flyers to advertise

12. Public comments

    1. Ross Nelson asked about sirens. It was explained briefly that Xcel is no longer going to be servicing the sirens in Goodhue County. Welch Township will be taking over sirens in our area

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Thank you letter received from Goodhue County Historical Society

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:58pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                             April 3rd, 2025           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The April 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from March board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. NOTE: Voided checks: 7073-7078, 7071, 2138, 2139

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Mighty Mississippi clean up will be 4/26/25 from 9am-11am at County 18 and Sturgeon Lake Rd

   2. Sheriff’s Office

      1. Tom Blue present. Nothing to present

4. Goodhue County Public Works – Jake Rezac, Alex Dicke, Jess Greenwood

   1. Three bridges to be replaced – two in Welch Township, one in Vasa Township

   2. Handout included

   3. Supervisors asked about County providing extra dust control during construction due to possible excess traffic on township gravel roads

      1. This could be a possibility and will be evaluated in real time

   4. Proposed replacements will be in 2025-2026

      1. Bridge L0415 located in Welch

      2. Bridge L0416 located in Welch

      3. Bridge 25530 located in Vasa

   5. Paved roads will be signed as detour

   6. Goal will be to complete all projects during “off seasons”

5. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Road maintenance agreement received and reviewed

   2. Jessica to reprint version of agreement without question listed on page one. Aaron Bauer will sign that version

6. Hearings (as required) – none

7. Building permit requests - none

8. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

9. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. No requests for permits

   2. Discussion about setbacks

      1. Currently 100 feet. County changed theirs from 100 feet to 30 feet

      2. Planning Commission voted to recommend the Township reduce setback to 30 feet for structures, 100 feet if there are animals in the structure, to align with the County

      3. This will be reviewed at hearing for cannabis ordinance at 5/1/25 board meeting

   3. Bolten and Menk gave presentation on 130th Ave project – Cristina took minutes for this portion. These were emailed out

10. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – no update given

11. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Two snow storms, few more trees down, blading

    2. 4/11/25 is the road tour

    3. Fitzgerald will now be taking care of the construction area of 130th

12. Items for discussion

    1. Reorganization

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to make Marcus Johnson chairman, and Andrew Jenson Vice chairman. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       2. Marcus Johnson made a motion to have Richard Corman of Vogel and Gorman handle all new legal matters after the road agreement is completed. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       3. No other changes to be made with the reorganization

    2. Change of website to .gov

       1. Email MAT for guidance

       2. Mike Creglow can allow assist

       3. Mike stated to contact Cyber Security & Infrastructure Security Agency

    3. Siren Management

       1. Quote received

       2. Township has already made a motion to go with them when we receive confirmation that the sirens officially belong to the Township. Table contract until confirmation is received

       3. Brief discussion about the sirens and supervisors decided to keep all 16 on the list from Xcel Energy. Jessica to email Xcel regarding this

    4. Road Tour scheduled for 2pm on 4/11/25. Move time to 3pm to better fit schedules

    5. Jessica Jacobson had numerous pieces of mail to review with supervisors, all determined to be advertisements that the Township is not interested in

13. Public comments

    1. Mike Creglow – racetrack in Cannon Falls looking to move across from the ski hill. Only rumor at this point. Concern about noise and traffic

       1. This would be Vasa Township

14. Clerk’s contacts - none

15. Meeting adjourned at 8:29pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                            March 6th, 2025         
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The March 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from February board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Mighty Mississippi clean up will be 4/26/25 from 9am-11am at County 18 and Sturgeon Lake Rd. Flyer provided

      2. Linda suggested following the governor’s budget right now. Some costs are being moved from state paying to county. The counties cannot afford this. Would cause 3.45% increase on top of whatever increase the county needs. This is something to be aware of. There is a lot of pressure to reduce state budget. Many cuts are Health and Human Services, also Sentence to Serve.

      3. Mediacom bid for grant for broadband. They have passed the first level. Project is not in Welch. Their project is $15M due to rock boring, estimated at $84K per fiber mile

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Cristina recommended awarding bid for 130th to Fitzgerald

      1. Need to execute agreement before construction can start

      2. Can potentially go further down the road through a change order, by changing quantity

   2. Prairie Island Blvd

      1. Good chance of getting full funding next year through LRIP

      2. Would have to wait a year

      3. PIIC will be applying for LRIP funding for this project

      4. Cristina recommends postponing this project

   3. Road agreement

      1. Not sure what the status is, needs to be finalized

   4. Marcus Johnson made a motion to table the Prairie Island Blvd project until LRIP funding is awarded. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests

   1. Kevin Garner: Addition on north side of home, project cost $217,000

      1. Meets all set backs

      2. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously. A $210.00 building permit fee was paid.

   2. Aaron Bauer: new construction, residence, project cost $275,000

      1. 180 feet to closest property line

      2. Slab on grade

      3. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve building permit. Marcus Johnson seconded. Motion passed. Aaron Bauer abstained. Will purchase permit at a later date

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Aaron Bauer attended regarding replacement dwelling – verified

      1. Old Wallin place, house was torn down years ago

      2. Planning commission recommends for approval

   2. Adam Bauer attended regarding mixed hamlet property

      1. Came with questions

      2. This property was a residence, explained process to change

      3. Discussed limited parking

   3. Kevin Gardner attending regarding addition to back of house

      1. Closest property line is over 100 feet

      2. Meets all setbacks

      3. Planning commission recommends for approval

   4. Cannabis discussion

      1. Growing cannabis vs hemp – state

         1. Cannabis – commercial application for license

         2. Hemp – not limited

      2. Growing/processing – commercial property only

         1. Discussed having 1000 ft setback from a residence due to odor

      3. Retail would fall under county licensing

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – no update given

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Plowing/sanding

    2. Rock in dip on 130th

    3. Snow storm – roads plowed and open, trees moved to edges of road, need to get them picked up, record number of trees down

    4. Road Tour will be in April

11. Items for discussion

    1. Road bids

       1. One bid was received, from Luhman’s Construction

       2. 3 year contract, 10% increase, 20% at year three

       3. Fuel surcharge if above $3.50 per gallon (currently at $2.99 per gallon)

          1. Based on off-road, can add that wording to the contract

       4. Insurance information included

       5. Marcus Johnson made a motion to accept bid. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Contract was signed

    2. Change website to .gov by 2026 – TABLED

    3. Advanced Septic – bills, pumping, contract

       1. Operating permit renewal received by clerk. Will forward to Advanced Septic. Aaron will call to follow up

    4. Road Tour will be 4/11/25 at 2:00pm. Clerk will post/publish for this

    5. Revisit paperwork from Cristina

       1. Resolution SAP025-592-001 signed by Aaron Bauer, chair, and Jessica Jacobson, clerk, regarding the Township agreeing to the terms and conditions of the LRIP funding for the 130th Ave road project

          1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to sign resolution SAP025-592-001 as stated between the Township and State of MN. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       2. Award contractor

          1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to award the 130th Ave road project to Fitzgerald. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       3. Signe LRIP agreement was signed and given to Cristina of Bolten and Menk

          1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to execute agreement #1058595 between Welch Township and the State of MN. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    6. Cannabis Ordinance

       1. Planning Commission discussed amendment to current ordinance for growing and processing cannabis

       2. Hearing will be at May 2025 board meeting

       3. Clerk will post and publish for this

    7. Setback ordinance

       1. Marcus suggested that the Township consider changing set backs to 30 feet to align with Goodhue County setbacks. Welch Township is currently at 100 feet for setbacks. This would decrease the need for variances with the Township. Properties can get subdivided at the county level and the 100 foot setback for the Township gets missed.

       2. To be discussed at the March Planning Commission meeting. If Planning Commission agrees with this suggestion, will be part of the May ordinance hearing

12. Public comments – there were none

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Jessica received emails from resident Terry Fruth regarding broadband. This was handled before the meeting by Mike Creglow

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:47pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                         February 6th, 2025       
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The February 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from January board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Board of Audit: Each supervisor chose a receipt and a disbursement from Township financial registers for the Treasurer to pull, transactions to be reviewed at end of meeting.

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Carol Overland – Goodhue County Planning Commission

      1. Carol attended the February Board meeting to introduce herself to the Welch Township Board. Carol is the newest member of the Goodhue County Planning Commission

      2. She is interested in any concerns and also what is going well

      3. Carol gave business cards to supervisors and stated that email is best for communication

   2. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Last Saturday was the Township Officers Meeting

         1. Broadband – Federal funding not to states yet

         2. Sentence to Serve – State no longer funding

         3. Two bridges to be replaced in Welch Township in 2026; State funding for roads/bridges to diminish over the next 5 years

         4. Cannabis – 300 page law, Linda gave copy of powerpoint and copy of City of Kenyon letter to county. City of Kenyon is giving power over to the county, Linda suggested the township contact the attorney for the township association, the township must create ordinances for the businesses we don’t want, cannot deny requests if they meet zoning requirements, unsure if there is a deadline for this, Goodhue County must accept a minimum of 4 businesses, this is still very confusing, Linda suggests the township start working with the county now

            1. Couri Ruppe – Attorney Office that presented

            2. County contact – Lucas Dahling

      2. Elections: Tribes can ask for pop-up polling place. If requested, township need to provide.

         1. PIIC has not requested this

   3. Sheriff’s Department

      1. Deputy encourage questions from residents and stated that they are all forwarded to Sheriff

5. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – not in attendance

   1. 27 contractors have pulled plans/shown interest in 130th and 13 contractors have pulled plans/shown interest in Prairie Island Blvd

   2. Attorneys are reworking agreement for 130th

6. Hearings (as required) – none

7. Building permit requests – none

   1. Adam Bauer – questions only

      1. Purchased property next to Bleu Dog, zoned mixed us per Goodhue County

      2. Asked about water and sewer – water is connected to Angie Glad’s well. Sewer is on the township sewer. This cost will be assessed on the property taxes

      3. Asked about permit for remodeling – would need to attend PC meeting and then the following board meeting

8. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

9. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were no guests

   2. Discussion regarding possible cannabis ordinance

      1. Reviewing Stearns County ordinance

      2. Much more dialog to come, there is a lot to discuss, this will be ongoing. Discussion will continue at February PC meeting

      3. Discussed retail vs. manufacturing vs. growing

      4. State of MN issues the licenses, County enforces compliance

10. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – no update given

11. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Not a lot for updates, there was a little plowing, there has been some brush moving

12. Items for discussion

    1. Annual meeting

       1. Approve agenda: Draft version provided by Jessica Jacobson

          1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve agenda as written, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       2. Set moderator pay

          1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to set the moderator pay at $20, Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       3. Set second alternate date for annual meeting

          1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to set the second alternate date as 3/25/25 for the annual meeting, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    2. Levy

       1. Aaron Bauer asked about past levy increase and checking account balance not increasing as expected. Per Thomas Ryan levy increase went to road and bridge due to increasing road costs

       2. Township currently has $136k in CD’s, earning approximately $6k in interest per year

       3. Borrowing for the Township is very complicated, if that were needed for 130th Ave project

       4. Before levy increase, road and bridge fund was running in a deficit, there were large road projects in 2022-2024

       5. Brief discussion about increasing road/bridge by $25k to cover potential out-of-pocket costs for 130th Ave project

       6. Aaron Bauer made a motion to leave levy as it is, Marcus Johnson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

          1. General $9000

          2. Road & Bridge $25000

          3. Fire $65000

          4. Total levy $324000

    3. Township attorney retirement

       1. Einar will be retiring. Finishing up legal work for clients no later than mid-June

       2. Marcus Johnson has spoken to Richard Gorman about providing legal work for Welch Township. No decision has been made at this time

    4. Xcel donation form

       1. Needs to be completed and returned

       2. Jessica Jacobson will ask Malloree to inform us when the sirens are officially ours, then Marcus Johnson will contact maintenance company

    5. Road maintenance contracts (template)

       1. Marcus Johnson drafted a document to use as template for road maintenance

       2. Supervisors reviewed and discussed

       3. Fuel charges not included

       4. Looking for three year contract, to be aligned with Douglas County if Luhman’s wins the bid

       5. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve the bid packet (road maintenance contract template) as a three year contract. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    6. Planning Commission Resolution: Resolution was signed for additional supervisors to be present at Planning Commission meetings while cannabis ordinances are discussed

13. Board of Audit

    1. Board of audit was completed. All transactions chosen by supervisors were reviewed

14. Public comments – there were none

15. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Letter received from Goodhue County Fair regarding donations and future projects. This was shared with supervisors

16. Meeting adjourned at 8:38pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          January 2nd, 2025       
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The January 2025 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from December board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Deputy in attendance – no concerns

      1. Noted that Sheriff’s office can check on snowbird houses – contact Sheriff’s office with address and dates gone

   2. Commissioner Flanders:

      1. Carol Overland is new member on County Planning Commission. She was planning to attend Welch Township January meeting, but was unable. Hopes to come to February meeting

      2. Mighty Mississippi clean up is receiving an award

         1. Next clean up with be 4/26/25

         2. Information going out to all commissioners

         3. Received award for last clean up, was in the paper

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – not in attendance

   1. 130th/Prairie Island Blvd

      1. Meetings with PIIC cancelled due to discrepancies on how to bid

      2. Einar/attorney states that bids need to have materials separate from labor

      3. Another meeting will be scheduled with PIIC to move forward

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests - none

7. Current bills

   1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Mike Creglow

   1. There were no guests

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – no update given

10. Road Update – Aaron Bauer for Darwin Fox

    1. Snow pushed off, and rock down before rain

11. Items for discussion

    1. Sirens – Marcus Johnson

       1. MNS Notification Solutions (Jack)

          1. Township has 15 sirens, total cost of $4125 annually to maintain. This includes maintenance and inspection. Batteries need to be replaced every 3-5 years, they cost $520 per siren

          2. Marcus Johnson made a motion to move forward with siren contract contingent on confirmation from Emergency Management that they will continue to activate sirens in emergencies. Also suggested that contract with MNS Notification Solutions be reviewed annually. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    2. Road contact bids

       1. Examples presented from Hampton Township

       2. Use rate sheets

       3. Advertise next weekend in paper

       4. Will open bids at March town board meeting

    3. Election judge resolution for Township Election was signed by supervisors and clerk

12. Public comments – there were none

13. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:02pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                        December 5th, 2024     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The December 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:03pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from November board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Deputy in attendance – no concerns

   2. Commissioner Flanders:

      1. Broadband – DEED funding coming to MN

         1. Providers in the state are struggling to meet guidelines

         2. Linda has written to the state and put together report for legislative luncheon

         3. Also more funding coming from Minnesota Department of Education – Linda has sent to Nuvera and MN SE Wifi

      2. County Board Meeting

         1. Cannabis Ordinance

            1. Is as restrictive as it can be

            2. Townships can delegate authority to County OR us this to make their own ordinance

            3. Aaron Bauer asked about growing

               1. Not in county ordinance

               2. Township has been discussing treating it as feed lot due to odor

               3. Linda noted that ordinances will not apply to sovereign nations

            4. There has been a feasibility study done to put dispensary at old Bauerbuilt building in Red Wing

      3. Mighty Mississippi clean up is receiving an award

         1. Next clean up with be 4/26/25

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – funding letter received

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests

   1. Ries Farms Nick Ries III

      1. 56’x200’ building, ½ ag storage, ½ grain, pictures provided

      2. Note: extra $300 fee for planning commission to review at board meeting, Thomas Ryan, Mike Creglow, and Darwin Fox present from planning commission

      3. Removing building to build another

      4. Meets all setbacks

      5. PLANNING COMMISSION: Mike Creglow made motion to recommend for approval, Darwin seconded, motion carried unanimously

      6. BOARD: Marcus made motion to approve, Andrew seconded, motion carried unanimously

      7. $325 fee paid, $25 ag building permit fee plus $300 special fee

      8. Nick will complete form for Clerk Jessica Jacobson to sign

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. No permit requests

   2. Bob Heiller came with questions about addition, not wanting permit yet, but fits setbacks

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Discussion on if cannabis growing is agricultural, will be more coming to planning commission and to commissioners as this goes forward. Townships own most of the agricultural land in the county

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Rock on 140th after rain stopped, 155th edging, then cleaned up, rock on short cut, finished mowing 130th, fixed culvert issue by Tom’s driveway due to addition done poorly years ago, blading after rain

11. Items for discussion

    1. Town hall updates: none

    2. Bridge #L0549 – Letter received from Erickson Engineering, email from Daniel LeMay

       1.  Estimated cost $185,000. First $10,000 of planning to be paid by township, first $10,000 of construction to be paid by township

       2. Aaron Bauer made motion to move forward with this bridge project/replacement, Andrew Jenson seconded. Motion carried unanimously

       3. Email sent back to Daniel LeMay regarding motion

    3. Cannabis – email from attorney, Einar

       1. Email received from Einar regarding potentially moratorium on cannabis cultivation, in order to give township time to enact appropriate controls. Einar reviewed Chapter 342 of the Minnesota Statutes, which regulates cannabis sale, cultivation, and use. Section 342.13 requires that a public hearing be held prior to any moratorium on this subject, and that the moratorium may only last until 1/1/2025.

       2. It is Einar’s opinion that it is not worthwhile to see a moratorium given the limited time until 1/1/2025, but does recommend appointing a supervisor to study the issue and recommend appropriate amendments to the zoning ordinance (if any) consistent with these limitations on the Township’s power to regulate cannabis cultivation

       3. Einar drafted a resolution for the township supervisors to review

       4. Marcus Johnson made a motion to adopt the resolution as drafted by Einar, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion carried unanimously

          1. Resolution was signed by supervisors and clerk

       5. Darwin Fox noted that it should be posted on the door of the townhall and on the website that more than one board member may be at Planning Commission meetings during the study of cannabis cultivation

          1. Jessica Jacobson will draft resolution, then post and put on website

12. Public comments

    1. Ken Slingsby

       1. Comment that he thought there were not going to mobile homes allowed on 130th, but seems it is now being allowed

       2. Will there be culvert markers on 130th?

          1. Has been discussed, did not move forward with it, would narrow the road when there is snow

13. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:31pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                        November 7th, 2024     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The November 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from October board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. NOTE: Check number 6872 was voided

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Deputy in attendance – no concerns

   2. Commissioner Flanders:

      1. Broadband – Nuvera and Nick Jablonske

         1. Possibility of fixed wireless?

            1. Nuvera will have engineers research

            2. Nick thinks it would work, but who would pay for it?

      2. Cannabis Ordinance (County)

         1. Draft passed, goes into effect 1/1/2025

         2. Many cities/townships have relinquished rights to the County

         3. Townships may want to check ordinances. If it doesn’t say you can’t do it, then you can

      3. Darwin Fox’s term is up on County Planning Commission. Carol Overland is interested. Has good qualifications, and would be a good representative for district 1

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk – no updates

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests

   1. Mitch Jackson – 14417 Welch Trail – 2200 square foot shop – meets set backs - $50,000 value

      1. Not at planning commission meeting

      2. Darwin Fox, Mike Creglow, Andrew Jenson present from planning commission

         1. Mike made a motion to move recommend permit be approved, Darwin seconded, motion passed unanimously

      3. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve request for building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

      4. $50 building permit fee paid, and permit was issued

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. No one in audience, not much discussion

   2. Cannabis

      1. Can we have set backs?

      2. Can only be commercial properties

         1. There are only two in Welch Township: Trailer park and Country Pump

         2. Ordinance on County Website – Jessica will find this and email to Supervisors

         3. Jessica will find information from MAT and email to supervisors

         4. Ordinance process can be months long

         5. Maybe check with attorney about moratorium

            1. Would be a resolution

            2. Marcus to email Einar

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. 6 recreational zones, looking at amendment, complicated, has been tabled twice

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Ditching on 130th to 267th and 265th to Welch Trail; all culverts are open; 98% seeded

    2. Working on blading

    3. Mowing should be done soon

11. Items for discussion

    1. Town hall updates: painting and roof are done, furnace being repaired, Marcus and Andrew checked out basement

    2. Sirens: Quote from MNS

       1. Cheaper than what we were originally told

       2. 15 sirens - $4125 annually, not including batteries

          1. Batteries would be additional $500

       3. County would still run them

       4. Would tribe maintain some?

       5. Add this to agenda for special meeting

12. Public comments – there were none

13. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:53pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          October 3rd, 2024       
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The October 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from September board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders:

      1. Broadband – Nuvera has no Welch projects in the future. Bead Money, applying for funding is so complicated that providers don’t want to apply

      2. Commissioner Flanders received concern about election judge safety driving back to County office after election. Have we had received any concern about this? No, Clerk and Supervisors have not received any concerns

      3. Commissioner Flanders needs to appoint a new County Planning Commission member. They meet on the 2nd Monday of the month. Please reach out with any interest

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. 130th Ave:

      1. County comments addressed and sent back, adjusted grade on southern hill

         1. Will then go to the state and will get funding letter

      2. Plans and specs have been sent to PIIC legal

         1. Einar is working on setting up a meeting for Welch Township and PIIC

         2. Plans and specs for Prairie Island Blvd will be sent tomorrow

      3. County engineer got link to specs today

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests

   1. Jeff Keesey – request building permit to build a shed – 15457 225th St

      1. Pole Shed 50’x104’

      2. Meets setbacks

      3. Building for agricultural purposes (equipment storage)

         1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve request for building permit, Marcus Johnson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

         2. A $25 fee was paid and permit issued

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Jeff Keesey came before the Planning Commission with a request to build a shed

      1. Meets road right of way and setbacks

      2. Fits township ordinances

      3. Was recommended for approval

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox – no update this month

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Lots of work on 130th, now working on 265th, culvert plugged at “Y” intersection, would like to make this intersection more straight, would improve safety and ease of snow removal

       1. Remove dirt patch at intersection of 130th and 265th, replace dirt with crushed rock

       2. Install bridge markers for culvert on 130th (3000’ north of intersection)

    2. Noted that resident is using rock from road to fix driveway

       1. Diane Meadley-Offtermatt, 13330 Welch Trail

       2. Township can contact Sheriff’s office

11. Items for discussion

    1. Town hall updates: Roof completed, wrapping up removal of the chimney

    2. Audio/Visual Equipment: Mike – to order schematics would cost more than the TV, took TV to repair place for estimate will bring back to board

    3. Furnace schedule for the winter:

       1. November/December – Marcus

       2. January/February – Aaron

       3. March/April - Andrew

12. Public comments

    1. Linda Flanders: 11 year old reached out with how upset they are about the sirens going away

13. Clerk’s contacts – there were none

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:41pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                       September 5th, 2024     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The September 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from August board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy in attendance, nothing to report

      1. Resident asked who to call to report deer stands put on property without permission, and was directed to call the DNR

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. 130th Ave:

      1. Still waiting for funding letter in order to advertise for bids, 2025 construction is recommended, but could still advertise for 2024 and 2025 pricing

      2. In a good position to come in under $1.5M

      3. Orlando will be detour, this is a county road (Dakota County)

         1. Does Township need to address additional wear and tear? Aaron will call

      4. One driveway has retaining wall at culvert, state funding will not pay to rebuild this

         1. Aaron Bauer noted that this retaining wall is not allowable and should not be rebuilt

   2. Prairie Island Blvd

      1. Can still possibly do construction in 2024

   3. Cristina’s notes attached to minutes

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests – none

7. Current bills

   1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were no permit requests at the August Planning Commission meeting

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Cannabis ordinance – Land Use Management with contact the Township

      1. Licensing: County will be taking over. Township will need written agreement with County

      2. State mandated – cannot refuse

      3. This will involve the Planning Commission

      4. Considered Agricultural business

      5. Limited number of permits per capita

         1. Only 12 licenses will be available for Goodhue County

      6. Clerk Jessica Jacobson was unable to attend webinar with MAT, will look for recording

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Roads are in good shape, clean up happening

    2. Luhman’s has ordered a brushing machine

    3. Home owners are responsible for branches growing in the roadway

    4. Dakota Electric left mess on 130th. Luhman’s will inspect. If needed, Darwin or Aaron will call

11. Items for discussion

    1. Escrow agreement

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to sign escrow agreement, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

       2. Jessica Jacobson to scan an email document to Einar

       3. Also noted that Jessica Jacobson should email Einar about meeting with PIIC

    2. Town hall updates – roof still to be done

       1. Marcus talked to Felber Roofing – end of month to do work

       2. Aaron talked to Felber Roofing – needs shingle color

          1. Supervisors decided on green for shingle color

          2. Aaron Bauer to call Felber Roofing re: shingle color

    3. SSD Rates 2025

       1. SSD Account: Current balance $65,000; last year balance $53,000; year before that $44,000

       2. Rates were $500 residence, $600 business for 2024 (per hook up)

       3. Other than general maintenance, nothing needs to be done at this time

       4. Aaron Bauer made a motion to change the rates for 2025 to: $400 residence, $500 business (per hook up), Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

       5. Jessica Jacobson to complete property tax assessments for those affected

    4. 2025 Tax Levy

       1. Was set an annual meeting, no change from 2024

       2. There was no further discussion from the public

       3. Jessica Jacobson to complete levy and return to County

          1. $9000 General

          2. $250,000 Road & Bridge

          3. $65,000 Fire & Ambulance

          4. Total $324,000

12. Public comments

    1. Mike Creglow: Nuvera truck may be in the area doing work – FYI

    2. Mike Creglow: TV at town hall does not work, Mike has been unable to repair, next step is to return to Walmart

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email from Samantha at Land Use Management regarding Doffing property requesting conditional use permit to operate business

       1. DC Well Drilling

       2. Township needs to acknowledge that we are aware of business

       3. It was noted that there have been no complaints against this business in 30 years, Township would only need to do CUP in the hamlet, would be helpful if supervisor(s) attended hearing, this is a tiny, well-maintained business, useful to our community, closest neighbor has no issue, impact to roads would be minimal

       4. Jessica Jacobson to email Samantha that Township is aware, including comments above

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:58pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                            August 1st, 2024         
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The August 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 6:59pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from July board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Deputy Cory Krause was in attendance but did not have anything to report.

   2. Commissioner Linda Flanders was present

      1. Cyber Security – provided handout about how to report incidents, and stated that more information is likely coming from MAT

      2. Broadband - $652M to the state of Minnesota

         1. Individuals can go to DEED to do a speed test, and let the state know if maps they have are incorrect

         2. Counties can apply for funding

         3. Tech summit last week at county, SE MN Wifi was not present, and did not apply for funding

         4. There is some money at the county level, and they could do a matching program with this funding

      3. Mississippi clean up – Hennepin did 64 events

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. 130th Ave:

      1. Suggested to advertise for 2024 and 2025 pricing when getting bids

         1. Should be able to advertise before September meeting, still awaiting funding letter

         2. Andrew Jenson made a motion to request both 2024 and 2025 pricing when advertising for bids for 130th Ave work, Aaron Bauer seconded, passed unanimously

   2. Has there been a meeting set up with PIIC? Supervisors understood that Cristina was initiating that request. Cristina stated she brought it up and it was sent to her legal department

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests – Three

   1. Matt Bauer – request for new construction of residence

      1. Value of project $450,000

      2. 120’ from closest property line

      3. Met with Goodhue County regard bluff, meets setback, site visit done

      4. Andrew Jenson made motion to approve building permit, Jessica Jacobson seconded, motion passed unanimously. Aaron Bauer abstained due to conflict

      5. Permit fee paid, permit issued

   2. Breanna and Jake Kohn – request for new construction of storage units on commercial property

      1. Value of project $496,280

      2. Lights for project will all be focused down, this was required by Goodhue County

      3. Revised project meets all setbacks

      4. Andrew Jenson made motion to approve, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

      5. Permit fee paid, permit issued

   3. Phil Doffing – request for new construction of storage shed

      1. Private drive

      2. Accessory buildings are permitted

      3. Liz Pasch (closest neighbor) reviewed plans

      4. Andrew Jenson made motion to approve building permit, Jessica Jacobson seconded, motion passed unanimously. Aaron Bauer abstained due to conflict

      5. Permit fee paid, permit issued

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were three requests at the Welch Township Planning Commission meeting

      1. Bauer – request has been reviewed with prior owner in the past

      2. Kohn – storage unit project, meets setbacks

      3. Doffing – shed on 155th, meets setbacks

   2. All requests were recommended for approval

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There was no July County Planning Commission meeting

   2. There is a sub-committee working on the comp plan

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Heavy rains caused debris and downed trees – all has been cleaned up

    2. Working on hills

    3. Cleaned out some culverts

    4. Mowing to keep noxious weeds down

11. Items for discussion

    1. Escrow agreement – tabled

    2. Town hall updates – roof still to be done

    3. Paperwork received regarding off-reservation gaming request by PIIC

       1. Document received by US Department of the Interior explaining that PIIC has made request to conduct off-reservation gaming activities on a 419.83 acre parcel of land located in and around the Pine Island city limits in Olmsted County. The BIA request that Welch Township submit written comments, if any, within 60 days, regarding 6 topics listed in the paperwork.

       2. Supervisors reviewed paperwork and had no comment

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 7:46pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                              July 7th, 2024            
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The July 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from June board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance - none

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. 130th Ave

      1. Haven’t posted for bids yet, have not yet receive the funding letter

      2. Provided revised cost estimate

      3. Agreement says this work will be completed this year, can be revised

      4. LRIP funding needs to be spent by end of 2025

      5. It was asked if the extra section to the bottom of the hill could be cost for PIIC

         1. Township would need to meet with PIIC regarding that

      6. Escrow agreement is on agenda for later this meeting

      7. Curb and gutter can be pulled off if the bid comes in high

      8. Letters and agreements have been sent out to residents regarding temporary easements during construction

      9. Cristina asked if we could call a special meeting to award the bid if needed.

         1. Yes, that can be done if posted and published properly

   2. Prairie Island Blvd

      1. New estimate and drawings provided

         1. $765,147.50, will probably be closer to $600k

      2. Mill 3”, pave 1.5”

      3. It was noted that one resident would like to put pipe under the road during construction, at his cost

      4. Cristina asked if we were ok with advertising for bids? Could get estimates for work to be done in 2024 and 2025

         1. Noted that agreement is not signed yet, Supervisor suggested that special meeting be requested with PIIC

            1. Cristina can request this, include board, road manager, Township attorney

            2. This would need to be posted and published

5. Hearings (as required) – none

6. Building permit requests – none

7. Current bills

   1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were no guests at the Welch Township Planning Commission meeting

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Darwin did not attend the Goodhue County Planning Commission meeting

   2. There were many requests for variances

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Trees down, log jam on Welch Trail, rocked 145th, closed a few road (flood), storm/flood clean up, and there is ditching to be done

    2. Darwin located some barricades to put on 230th

11. Items for discussion

    1. Tom Pasch/Westwood Hills came before the board with Leon Lenertz and Mark Lodermeier. They are residents of Westwood Hills. Purpose was to inform Township Board of their intent to separate from the City of Red Wing and annex to Welch Township. This development is part of the City of Red Wing, but has Welch addresses. There are 25-30 homes with 70-80 residents in Westwood Hills.

       1. These residents pay City of Red Wing taxes without receiving any of the amenities that those taxes fund.

       2. They consider themselves rural in nature

       3. They maintain their own sewer and water services

       4. Their next step is a petition, then to get a resolution from Welch Township, then to State Chief Judge

       5. They noted that this could have a positive tax impact for Welch Township

       6. They have spoken to Commissioner Flanders and have met with City of Red Wing Administrator

       7. They again noted that their purpose at this meeting was just to present their intents and not to request anything from Welch Township at this time

       8. Supervisor Aaron Bauer mentioned the potential burden of road maintenance

          1. Tom stated that their road was redone 3 years ago and that they would be open to an escrow to tax assessment to pay for road maintenance

    2. Town hall updates

       1. Propane tank line is bent – Marcus will call on this

    3. FEMA – email received from Goodhue County Emergency Management regarding flooding and potential FEMA finds. Darwin/Road Maintenance prepared a list of costs from 6/17-current related to flooding, cost was minimal. Jessica Jacobson will fill out spreadsheet from Emergency Management and return

    4. Cannabis guidance update – Jessica Jacobson sent email to MAT. Return email received that my questions were copied to MAT attorney, no further information received as of yet

    5. Escrow agreement

       1. Aaron Bauer suggested that everyone review and then will be completed next board meeting. Copies were given to supervisors

       2. It was also noted that signature page of agreement should be updated to list Aaron Bauer as Chair

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:14pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                             June 6th, 2024           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The June 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:02pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from April board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed, Aaron Bauer abstained

   1. Check# 6886 was voided

3. Township membership cards were received from MAT and distributed to Supervisors, Clerk, and Treasurer

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy Kainea Whitehead was in attendance, nothing to report

      1. It was reported to the Sheriff’s Deputy that there has been debris and bags dumped on Welch Trail, east of Fruth property, that has plugged a culvert

   2. Commissioner Flanders was present

      1. Vacant building next to Bleu Dog Café is now in forfeiture, meaning it is owned by the state, inspector has condemned it, and there has been an estimate to demolish it

         1. There are two interested buyers, but would have to go to auction

         2. Goodhue County is working to find out if property can be sold as is or if it needs to be demolished

      2. Cannabis Law (Office of Cannabis Management)

         1. Early licenses can be issued 7/1/24 (8 types of licenses, including growing and selling)

         2. Must fit into zoning

         3. Township may want to look into writing ordinances, however there is not time to do this before 7/1/24, option to look into a moratorium

            1. Jessica Jacobson will contact MAT

         4. 10% user tax will be paid to Goodhue County under these licenses, of which Welch Township would received 20%

         5. Welch Township only has two commercial properties, which is required for selling

         6. Welch Township may not have zoning that these licenses would fit into

         7. Possible questions to MAT:

            1. What are the responsibilities of township allowing cannabis business

            2. Is this an agricultural product

5. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. Notes and cost estimate provided by Cristina (copy attached to minutes)

   2. To consider: Does Welch Township want a speed study done? MNDOT does the study, would need a resolution to request

   3. On the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan, contact was listed as Andrew Jenson, will change to Aaron Bauer

   4. Bidding: Township needs to authorize advertisement, pending receipt of funding letter

      1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to authorize advertisement for bids, pending receipt of funding letter with construction ending where currently proposed and beginning at the bottom of the hill. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

   5. It was noted that Bolten and Menk will do the temporary easements

   6. Anything out of the right-of-way will be the responsibility of PIIC

   7. Section near roundabout is state right-of-way

      1. It was asked if the state should be financially responsible for this section. If so, this project could potentially be extended further down the road (shifted). Cristina will ask this question

   8. Cristina will email state aid about extending pavement to the bottom of the hill

   9. There will be an option to remove curb and gutter after bids have been received

6. Hearings (as required) – There were none

7. Building permit requests

   1. Brandon Napper came before the board requesting a permit for a 54x48 shed, project was recommended for approval from the Planning Commission. There are no set back issues

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve building permit, Marcus Johnson seconded. The motion  passed unanimously

      2. A $25 building permit fee was paid (ag project)

   2. Brianna Berg came before the board requesting a permit for a 16’x22’ deck, cost of project is $10,000, deck will be attached to the residence, and there are no set back issues

      1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve permit as illustrated, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      2. A $25 building permit fee was paid

8. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

9. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Brandon Napper presented to Planning Commission project listed above in building permit requests. Planning Commission recommended for approval

10. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

    1. Belle Creek Roller Rink will now be a Wedding Venue, needed a variance for parking lot

11. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Lots of rain, dead ash trees falling, culvert plugged on 265th

    2. Half of the chloride is finished, other half will be done soon pending weather

12. Items for discussion

    1. Escrow agreement – Supervisors reviewed escrow agreement from Einar. Einar is requesting comments from board.

       1. Andy noted that the document should be updated to reflect Aaron as chair person

    2. Town Hall updates – painting job has been completed

    3. SE MN Wifi – Nick Jablonski

       1. Nick from SE MN Wifi attended the meeting to find out if there have been any inquiries about wifi from residents

       2. There is a new grant available, but entry fee is very high, he may not be able to participate

       3. Linda Flanders noted that there is $652M coming to MN for broadband, DEED will administer funds (BEAD funds). She also noted that there are some funds left at county level. She will follow up on this

       4. Nick looking into doing 145th, 165th, and 155th; about 20-30 residences

    4. Tribal land paperwork received – Jessica Jacobson noted that the township received “Notice of Decision” paperwork regarding the Tribal land recently put into trust. PIIC’s application to put this land into trust has been approved. Supervisors briefly reviewed the paperwork.

    5. Election Judges: Resolution needed for election judges hired by Jessica Jacobson. Judges will be Jessica Jacobson, Darwin Fox, Elizabeth Pasch, Christopher Sampson, Mike Creglow, Mari Mellick, Deb Fjetland, and Jennifer Piehl

       1. Resolution was prepared and signed by Supervisors and Clerk

       2. Jessica to send copy to Goodhue County Elections Office

    6. CD renewal – Jessica Jacobson noted that per Treasurer, one of the township CD’s is maturing. Decision needs to made to renew

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to renew CD, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    7. Annual population and household estimates: Jessica Jacobson received this from the MN State Demographic Center. Response required only if township is not satisfied with estimates

       1. Numbers were reviewed and found to be satisfactory

13. Public comments - none

14. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email received from Luverne Seifert at the University of MN looking a space for theater performances. He asked if any board members could join a brainstorming session at the Bleu Dog Café on 6/21

       1. No board members were available, email sent to Luverne. Also suggested that he contact Legacy Hills Farm. There are not any other locations in Welch to accommodate large performances.

    2. Email from Goodhue County regarding Gartner property and disconnecting the sewer

       1. Supervisors stated that the contractor demolishing the building should disconnect and the Township will inspect afterwards

15. Meeting adjourned at 8:53pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                             May 2nd, 2024           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The May 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from April board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy Tom Blue was in attendance, nothing to share, but did note that they see a lot of high speeds on County 7 Blvd, and motorcycle high speeds on County 7 and Highway 19

   2. Commissioner Flanders was present

      1. River clean up went well, removed 45 bags of garbage

      2. Broadband – Federal government giving funding to states, $650M to Minnesota, she has pitched Welch Township

         1. This funding comes through DEED, and there are no dates yet

      3. Vacant building next to Bleu Dog Café

         1. Have we received any complaints? No

         2. 5 years behind on taxes, County cannot go after tax forfeiture until 6 years

         3. Bleu Dog has complained about water and pest issues

            1. County is working with Land Use Management to get it cleaned out

         4. There has been issue finding heirs

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. 130th Ave has been selected for LRIP funding

      1. LRIP kick off meeting 5/10 at 1pm

      2. Additional paving: to bottom of hill +$320k, to low point +$170k

      3. Let Cristina know where to haul back fill

      4. Oyate West field entrance on West side, would like to maintain this

      5. Bidding: will bring plan to June meeting, then will advertise after funding letter, possibly award at July meeting?

   2. Prairie Island Blvd did not get chosen for LRIP funding

      1. Have just begun bid documents production

   3. Escrow agreement: Cristina will follow up with Joe Halloran

   4. Maintenance shed by elder care facility to be added off existing access, potentially 40’x120’, also may add address opposing the water tower

5. Hearings (as required) – There were none

6. Building permit requests – There were none

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There were no building permit requests

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Had a couple of setback variances

   2. Comprehensive plan is being updated

   3. FYI: Conditional Use Permit approved for storage unit business for the Kohn’s. Request for setback variance with Goodhue County was withdrawn, and they plan to build within the setbacks

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Adding rock, starting to blade, continuing to ditch

    2. Might be an early year formowing

    3. Chloride by 2nd week in June

11. Items for discussion

    1. Escrow agreement – tabled until June Board Meeting

    2. Town Hall Update

       1. Painters have started, there are 8 broken panes of glass (Marcus authorized repair), they are not painting the foundation, middle front window will be addressed

    3. Sirens

       1. Will be no longer be in services

       2. Welch Township will not be maintaining any of the sirens

       3. Land Use Management Survey

          1. Marcus read questions, answered as a group, Jessica will return to the County

    4. ARPA funds – Jessica reported that online reporting has been completed

    5. July Board Meeting falls on the 4th of July

       1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to reschedule the meeting for 7/11/24. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       2. Jessica will post and publish this

    6. Culvert/Bridge on Jackson/Fruth property

       1. This is not the bridge that is being replaced by the County. Bridge being replaced is bridge L0549 which is located Southwest by the turn around for tubing that the Petrashek property. Jessica to remail Terry Fruth regarding this.

    7. Road Maintenance contract – will be extended to 3/31/25 to align with Douglas Township

       1. This will be added to January 2025 agenda and open bid will be posted/published at that time/before

       2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to extend road maintenance contract through 3/31/25. Marcus Johnson seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email received from Alex Dicke at Goodhue County regarding the L0549 Bridge, asking which consultant we would like them to send information to. Jessica confirmed with Supervisors that it is Erickson Engineering and will respond to Alex at Goodhue County.

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:49pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                             April 4th, 2024           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The April 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Marcus Johnson, Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from March board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Marcus, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy was in attendance for any questions from the public, there were none

   2. Miesville Fire Department was present to review budget – Chief Steve Meyers and Assistant Chief Brian Napper

      1. Present new budget for 2024 and proposed budgets for 2025, 2026, 2027; handouts were provided and are attached

      2. New budgets include $4-5k increase per year for Welch Township

      3. Welch Township was 52% of total calls for service in 2023

      4. Water Wars will take place 7/20/24 at the fire hall at 2:00pm

      5. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve new fire budget, Marcus Johnson seconded, the motion passed unanimously

   3. Commissioner Flanders was present

      1. Zoom call with Xcel Energy, FEMA, and Homeland Security regarding the decommissioning of the sirens, and changing over to IPAWS. IPAWS notifies of emergency via TV, landline, cell phone, and radio

         1. Xcel will transfer sirens to Welch Township at a cost of approximately $1000-1500 per siren, per year. Welch Township has 18 sirens (3 of which are on boarders)

         2. Concern is that Welch has areas with limited cell service

         3. 4 of the sirens are most important, due to location

         4. Linda is has meeting with County on Monday (4/8/24)

         5. Xcel will not help with the cost of maintaining the sirens

         6. Permit request has been made to FEMA

         7. PIIC will be taking over their siren

         8. Welch needs to decide if they want to take on sirens and which ones

            1. G15 and G16 are the sirens at the Cannon Valley Trail, and the Cannon River Inn

      2. River Clean up – 4/20/24 County 18 and Sturgeon Lake Road 9-11am

         1. Counties along the river have been invited to “compete” in the clean up

4. LRIP Funding Update – Cristina Mlejnek, Bolten & Menk

   1. 130th Ave has been selected for LRIP funding, kick off meeting is required, it is a virtual meeting

      1. Township can attend but is not required to

      2. Draft of bid will be presented at May Board Meeting

         1. Cristina can do the advertising and field phone calls regarding bids

      3. Construction costs are covered by LRIP

      4. Construction administration? Cristina can consult on this, state aid may weigh in on this

      5. Agreement is to complete work in 2024

   2. Prairie Island Blvd did not get chosen for LRIP funding, starting to work on bid documents

      1. Mill & overlay 2.6 miles

      2. Construction and engineering 50/50 cost with PIIC

      3. Reviewed agreement draft, exhibits are being working on, perhaps at Joe’s office, Cristina will follow up

5. Hearings (as required) – Jake and Breanna Kohn

   1. Board meeting closed and hearing opened at 7:53pm

   2. Board members present: Aaron Bauer, Marcus Johnson, Andrew Jenson

   3. Planning Commission members present: Darwin Fox, Liz Pasch, Thomas Ryan, Mike Creglow

   4. Variance request is to reduce existing setback of 50’ to 40’ on North side of property at 13450 Hwy 61 Blvd. Township set back is 50 feet from the road right-of-way

   5. Purpose of the variance request is to use as much space as they can to install self-storage units

      1. Still awaiting their grading plan and retention pond plans, hope to have this within a month, property will be paved between units

   6. Conditional use permit was approved at County level

   7. Public Comment: asked three times

      1. Randy Peine ask what is going on with this property – Storage units

      2. Terri Ryan asked if there will be a fence and if units will be open 24 hours per day

         1. The Kohns are unsure at this time

      3. Miesville Fire Department stated that they will need a key

         1. Where is access? Old original entrance

         2. Will there be a restriction on hazmat? Yes

         3. Will it be lit? Yes

   8. Darwin Fox moved to close public comment, Andrew Jenson seconded

   9. Marcus Johnson made a motion to deny request for variance because current zoning ordinance was in place before property was purchased. Current zoning allows for this type of us. There is no hardship, since they could simply reduce the number of storage units and move forward without the need for a variance. Darwin Fox seconded

      1. It was noted that zoning ordinance was already in place, the property is usable within the current zoning ordinances, and the purpose of this variance request is monetary gain, there is no basis to approve this request

      2. Approval of this variance request would be arbitrary and capricious

      3. Motion passed unanimously (Township Board and Board of Adjustment), with Andrew Jenson abstaining from the vote

   10. Variance hearing fee of $500 was paid

   11. Hearing closed and Board meeting reopened at 8:13pm; Board meeting resumed at 8:13pm

6. Building permit requests

   1. Jeff Endres, 13915 Welch Trail, request to build new home. Building site meets all setbacks, Endres provided plans for the home

   2. Planning Commission reviewed and recommended for approval

   3. Value $763,000

   4. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

   5. $760 permit fee paid

7. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

8. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Endres building permit request, recommended for approval

9. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Kohn request for self-storage units on Hwy 61

      1. Project met requirements for conditional use permit

      2. Request was tabled at the board of adjustment meeting

   2. Comprehensive plan is being updated

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Road Tour 4/5/24 at 1:00pm

    2. Reclaim rock from edges, blading, plowing after the snow, little bit of ditching

    3. Roads look good now

11. Items for discussion

    1. Town Hall Update (work of $25k must have bids)

       1. Felber Roofing has been notified that he was awarded roofing job

       2. Marcus Johnson got quote from Featherston for paint = $11,800

          1. Jessica Jacobson read quote aloud

          2. May need to check if repairs needed to any windows

          3. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept painting bid, Marcus Johnson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

          4. Marcus Johnson to call Featherstone and Felber to properly coordinate work

          5. NOTE: ARPA funds will fund both projects

    2. ARPA

       1. Use funds for roofing and painting projects

       2. All funds need to be allocated by end of 2024, and potentially needs to be spent by end of 2026

       3. Awarded $80,000 to start, current balance $68,000

          1. Funds have been used for Nuvera project, SEMN Wifi project, Townhall wifi and equipment

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:37pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                            March 7th, 2024         
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The March 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from February board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy was in attendance and stated there is nothing to share at this time and things have been quiet

   2. Commissioner Flanders was present

      1. River clean up scheduled for 4/20/2024 9:00am-11:00am at County 18 and Sturgeon

         1. Seven other organizations are also cleaning up the river at different locations

      2. Eagle View, app available on phone that shows property lines on any home in Goodhue County. Township Officers can participate free of charge. This app is not for the public. Brian at Land Use Management is contact. There is a training online.

         1. A question was asked by resident about privacy, they were directed to land use management

4. Hearings (as required) – Robert and Terri Ryan

   1. Board meeting closed and hearing opened at 7:12pm

   2. Request regarding plans to segment three acres of their property at 13789 Highway 61, to build a second dwelling.

   3. Planning Commission reviewed request and suggested that the building site on the parcel should be adjusted from original plans so that it meets the Township’s setbacks on the south, east and west sides. North side would require variance, as it would be under the 100’ setback.

   4. Robert and Terri are requesting a 30’ variance on the north side of the parcel, parcel will be three acres. This will keep up with plateau and conserve agricultural land on the property

   5. The new parcel will change ownership

   6. There will be an easement for the entire drive, description is on survey that was presented at the hearing

   7. Public comment was requested three time, there was no public comment

   8. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve the variance request, Mike Creglow seconded, there was no further discussion, motion passed unanimously, with Marcus Johnson abstaining

   9. $350,000 estimated value of the new dwelling

   10. $500 variance hearing fee was paid, $320 building permit fee was paid, building permit issued

   11. Hearing closed and Board meeting reopened at 7:20pm; Board meeting resumed at 7:20pm

5. Building permit requests – there were none

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. No permit requests, meeting was general discussion only

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Vasa Township has had a request for a non-profit folk school, had been tabled prior

      1. Request was approved after much discussion, approved as ag tourism and bed and breakfast

9. Road Tour will be scheduled for 4/5/24 at 1:00pm, starting at Aaron Bauer’s house

   1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson will post

10. Road Update – Darwin Fox

    1. Have been doing some blading

11. Items for discussion

    1. Outdoor Sirens (recap & new discussion)

       1. Welch Township has 15 sirens, plus 3 on boarders

       2. Townships have the option to take over the sirens

          1. $500-1000 per siren to maintain

          2. $5-10k to remotely monitor (for all); this is an additional option

       3. Concern in Welch Township is that there is limited digital signal to receive the new weather warnings via cell phone – safety of residents and tourists

          1. High tourism area

       4. Commissioner Flanders

          1. Towers are owned by Xcel Energy

          2. She will take our concerns to the County

       5. Marcus Johnson contacted Pam Altendorf/state representative regarding this – switching to cell phone alerts is within Xcel Energy’s contract

    2. Town Hall Update

       1. Roofing estimates:

          1. Felber Roofing $13,650

          2. Renner Roofing $13,700

          3. Marcus Johnson made a motion to replace the roof with Felber Roofing, Andrew Jenson seconded, the motion passed unanimously

          4. Marcus Johnson to call Felber Roofing

       2. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received correspondence from Cannon Pest

          1. Aaron Bauer will call them about upcoming services

    3. LBAE

       1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson gave reminder – send email

       2. It was noted that we could request that this be at the town hall next year

12. Public comments - none

13. Clerk’s contacts - none

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:08pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          February 1st, 2024       
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The February 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:02pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from January board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   1. Marcus Johnson abstained from voting, was not present at December meeting

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

   2. Andrew Jenson asked Thomas Ryan if Luhman’s has billed the township for clean up due to SEMN Wifi. Darwin stated they have not billed yet, he will follow up

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy was in attendance and stated there have been no concerns and things have been quiet

4. Hearings (as required) – Devon Wittman  (Ron Fox, property ownder)

   1. Board meeting closed and hearing opened at 7:11pm

   2. Devon is requesting a variance to move the building site on parcel #46.013.0601 in Welch Township, he plans to build a permanent home, and will be purchasing a 5 acre lot from Ron Fox

   3. Devon states this has been approved by Goodhue County

      1. This will make the previous building site unbuildable, this will be recorded

   4. Purpose of moving building site is to conserve agricultural land

   5. Planning Commission finds this plan feasible

   6. Existing field drive will be driveway

      1. Driveway does not meet road at 90 degrees. However this is a low travelled road, this is not seen as a hazard, there is good visibility, there is a culvert that causes driveway to meet road the way it does, this is already a permitted driveway

   7. There were no written responses received from neighbors

   8. Public Comment: (Requested from audience members three times)

      1. Robert Luhman: Driveway must have reverse slope for 8 feet by law. Robert states he was forced to buy 6 acres when he requested variance. He is concerned that other lots will be sold off of this property.

         1. Responses from Board and Planning Commission were that the County has reviewed the driveway and it can be done with some work. Driveway is not relevant to this hearing. This hearing is on an A2 parcel, hearing where 6 acres was purchased was A3

   9. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve variance to move buildable site from one quarter quarter to another with deed restriction that original site will no longer be buildable. Andrew Jenson seconded. Motion passed unanimously, Board (Aaron Bauer, Andrew Jenson, Marcus Johnson) and Planning Commission (Darwin Fox, Thomas Ryan, Mike Creglow)

   10. $500 variance hearing fee was paid, no building permit requested at this time

   11. Hearing closed and Board meeting reopened at 7:27pm

5. Building permit requests

   1. Jake and Brianna Kohn came before the Board with questions about their plans to add self-storage units to their commercial property on Hwy 61. They are looking into requesting a variance for 40 feet from the road right-of-way rather than the required 50 feet. They state that they have spoken to Goodhue County and MNDot and we told that neither have any setbacks, they would only have to adhere to the Township setbacks

      1. Marcus Johnson stated that he called Goodhue County regarding a project like this and presented the following information:

         1. Township requirement is 50 feet from road right-of-way

         2. Project would need grading plan and storm water plan

            1. Grading plan would need to be done by a civil engineer

            2. No more water can leave the property than currently does

         3. Project would require 5% greenspace

         4. Project will require a conditional use permit

      2. The Kohn’s noted that they were told that there were no setbacks at the county level

      3. Marcus Johnson read the definition of “variance”

         1. This includes there being “exceptional circumstance” in order for variance to be granted, if a variance is requested, they will need to prove exceptional circumstance

      4. Darwin Fox noted that the Planning Commission reviewed the setbacks for this property and they are 30 feet on the side and rear, and 50 feet from the roadway

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. The Kohn project was discussed

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. New solar farm on Highway 58

   2. Vasa Township has had a request for a non-profit folk school

      1. Requesting to use house has bed and breakfast only on weekends when students are there

      2. 50-100 students on the weekends

      3. Owners don’t intend to live there

      4. Discussion was tabled, need for more information

9. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Roads are getting muddy, but in good shape

   2. SE MN Wifi: Luhman’s needs to bill the Township for repair so the Township can bill SE MN Wifi

10. Items for discussion

    1. Election judges for March PNP and March Township Elections

       1. Jessica Jacobson, Mike Creglow, Elizabeth Pasch, Darwin Fox, Angela LaCombe, Mari Mellick

       2. Resolutions done for each election

       3. Marcus Johnson made a motion to appoint the listed judges for the Township Election, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

       4. Aaron Bauer made a motion to appoint the listed judges for the March PNP election, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

       5. Resolutions were signed by supervisors and clerk

    2. Annual meeting

       1. Approve agenda

          1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve agenda as drafted by Clerk, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

       2. Set moderator pay

          1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve annual meeting moderator pay at $20 per hour, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

       3. Set second alternate date for Annual Meeting

          1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to set second alternate date for 3/26/24, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

    3. Levy 2025

       1. Background information: Levy payable in 2024 was $9000 General, $250,000 Road & Bridge, $65,000 Fire & Ambulance; Township currently has approx. $130,000 in CD’s; There is a little extra in the fire fund

       2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to keep the 2025 levy the same as the 2024 levy, Marcus Johnson seconded, the motion passed unanimously

    4. Outdoor Sirens (recap & new discussion)

       1. Xcel Energy will be disabling 64 outdoor weather warning sirens by May 2024 at the earliest. Of these, 29 sirens are in Townships

       2. Welch Township has 15 sirens, plus 3 on boarders

       3. Currently, the county activates the sirens, but does not own them

       4. Townships have the option to take over the sirens

          1. $500-1000 per siren to maintain

          2. $5-10k to remotely monitor (for all); this is an additional option

       5. Concern in Welch Township is that there is limited digital signal to receive the new weather warnings via cell phone

       6. This has been pitched to County Commissioners

       7. Marcus Johnson plans to call state representative regarding this

    5. Town Hall Update

       1. Marcus Johnson called Chandler roofing for second quote on roof, they will be coming out to do estimate

       2. Aaron Bauer called Dan Felber for quote on roof as well

11. Board of Audit – Review of documents

    1. Treasurer Thomas Ryan presented documents regarding the transactions selected by supervisors at the start of the meeting. Receipts and claims selected were signed off on by supervisors on Board of Audit Report

12. Public comments

    1. Regarding town hall updates, will we build new?

       1. Supervisors explained that at this point the township is researching options and costs

       2. It was asked what Douglas Township is paying for their new building – around $400,000

13. Hazard Mitigation Planning meeting

    1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson attended the Goodhue County Hazard Mitigation Planning meeting, and asked for anything that should be brought up to during this planning

       1. Nuclear Power Plant – Disabling sirens

       2. Nuclear Power Plant – storage of fuel rods in casks

       3. River – flooding

       4. Emergency traffic planning, during high traffic such as large events at Treasure Island (weather emergencies or other)

14. Clerk’s contacts

15. Meeting adjourned at 8:29pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          January 4th, 2024        
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The January 2024 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from December board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

   2. Andrew Jenson asked Darwin of Luhman’s Construction if Luhman’s has billed the township for clean up due to SEMN Wifi. They have not billed yet, Darwin will follow up

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy, Corey Krause, was in attendance

      1. Aaron Bauer asked about addresses in Welch Township that were changed about a year ago, new addresses don’t work in navigation apps, navigation will take you about three miles up the road. He also checked with the Miesville Fire department, and the same happened for them when they searched the address

         1. It was noted to contact the Emergency Management person at Goodhue County regarding this issue.

      2. Sheriff’s deputy was made aware of garbage on 225th. Luhman’s in working on getting this cleaned up, though some of it is still frozen in the ground

   2. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Budget/levy has been passed, 4.2% Levy

      2. There have been some complaints about property taxes. Overprices houses have been driving up values

      3. Demo/Landfill closed in Wanamingo, working on re-zoning process for transfer station to be put in

      4. Election this year, 34 pages of changes, Goodhue County is looking for volunteers for elections

      5. Mississippi clean up challenge

         1. Doing this again this year, wrote personal invitation

         2. Will be scheduled for 4/20/24 (Earth Week)

         3. Working on two videos for the event

4. Hearings (as required) – None

5. Building permit requests – None

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Bob and Terri Ryan came before the Planning Commission about a 2nd dwelling on Highway 61 property. This is a unique property, with section line between house and barn. They are looking into a variance to have a 2 acre building site, rather than 3 acres. Would need a variance for not meeting setback. They did not make the request for variance at this time, but will likely request in the future. A survey is needed. If requested as proposed at Planning Commission, next step would be to request variance from the Township Board

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – No update given

9. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. No snow yet, bladed as many main roads as they could, roads are in good shape, picked up logs/trees

10. Items for discussion

    1. Jake and Brianna Kohn came to discuss with the Township Board adding storage units to their commercial property on Highway 61

       1. Looking to add three rows of storage units – RV/trucks, boats, smaller units

       2. Set back is 30’ at the County, but is 100’ at the Township, would need a variance to do as they have planned

       3. They presented a survey and sketch

       4. Next steps: attend Planning Commission meeting, then apply for variance, this will require a hearing

       5. Clerk Jessica Jacobson will scan and email documents present to the Planning Commission members

    2. Outdoor Sirens (recap & new discussion)

       1. Xcel Energy will be disabling 64 outdoor weather warning sirens by May 2024 at the earliest. Of these, 29 sirens are in Townships

       2. Welch Township has 15 sirens, plus 3 on boarders

       3. Currently, the county activates the sirens, but does not own them

       4. Townships have the option to take over the sirens

          1. $500-1000 per siren to maintain

          2. $5-10k to remotely monitor (for all); this is an additional option

       5. Concern in Welch Township is that there is limited digital signal to receive the new weather warnings via cell phone

       6. This has been pitched to County Commissioners

       7. Jessica Jacobson will follow up with Cristina at Bolton and Menk regarding PIIC involvement with the sirens

    3. Town Hall Update

       1. Marcus Johnson will call Chandler roofing for second quote on roof

11. Public comments – there were none

12. Clerk’s contacts

13. Meeting adjourned at 7:51pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                        December 7th, 2023     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The December 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from November board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

   2. Clerk Jessica Jacobson mentioned that SE MN Wifi has asked if they can deduct the clean up fee of $450 from what the Township is contributing to the broadband project. Per supervisors, the $450 clean up fee was an estimate. Township will make their contribution to the project in full, and SE MN Wifi will be billed for clean up cost

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s deputy in attendance stated that not much has been happening in Welch

   2. 6 new hires are being train

   3. Please call in with any complaints/concerns

4. Hearings (as required) – None

5. Building permit requests

   1. Devon Wittman/McKenzie Franklin came before the board with Ron and Cindy Fox inquiring about a variance to move building site. They have spoken to Goodhue County and received a variance application for the Township to sign in acknowledgement of the request. Andy Jenson signed.

   2. Process was explained, that they can move forward with the Township process for variance concurrently with the County process, or they can wait to start Township process until after they receive a decision from the County. Devon will contact Jessica Jacobson when they want to move forward with Township process.

      1. This will need to be published, posted, and 10 closest neighbors will need to be notified.

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Andy Jenson

   1. Devon Wittman, McKenzie Franklin, and Ron and Cindy Fox were present to discuss variance process and were advised to attend the December Board Meeting

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – No update given

9. Road Update – Andy Jenson

   1. Roads are in good condition

   2. Complaint received regarding 165th - washboarding

10. Items for discussion

    1. Earl Merchlewitz/Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office – Outdoor Sirens

       1. Xcel Energy will be disabling 64 outdoor weather warning sirens by May 2024 at the earliest. Of these, 29 sirens are in Townships

       2. Weather warnings will then be done through IPAWS and Everbridge

       3. Welch Township has 15 sirens, plus 3 on boarders

       4. Currently, the county activates the sirens, but does not own them

       5. Townships have the option to take over the sirens

          1. $500-1000 per siren to maintain

          2. $5-10k to remotely monitor (for all); this is an additional option

       6. Concern in Welch Township is that there is limited digital signal to receive the new weather warnings via cell phone

       7. This has been pitched to County Commissioners

       8. Jessica Jacobson to add this to January 2024  agenda, Commissioner Flanders will be present for this meeting

    2. LRIP – Cristina Mlejnek

       1. Applications due 12/8/2023

       2. Requesting $1.5M for 130th Ave

       3. Requesting $331K for Prairie Island Blvd

       4. Reviewed letters of support and resolution prepared by Cristina; one minor change made to letters of support for 130th and PI Blvd

       5. It was also noted that Bolton and Menk will submit the LRIP applications on behalf of Welch Township

       6. Motion made by Aaron Bauer to sign resolution, seconded by Marcus Johnson

          1. The motion passed unanimously

          2. Resolution signed supporting the reconstruction of Prairie Island Blvd, improvements to 130th Ave, and pursuit of LRIP funding

    3. Utility Permit

       1. Goodhue County has provided a form to use for utility permit

       2. Discussion: Should there be a structure to the fee? Utility fee will cover cost of Luhman’s construction inspection of site (site visit). Will escrow for larger projects.

       3. Add this to the website

       4. Aaron Bauer made a motion to implement utility permit with open fee. Andy Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    4. Town Hall Update

       1. Roof: Renner Roofing $13,7000.0 which includes removal of chimney. Aaron Bauer met with Dohmann: branches rubbed some of the asphalt off, recommending just repair. No water coming in entry way. Mike Creglow noted that he could see water dripping in the entry last April. Aaron will get quotes on exterior paint, and quote for ramp

       2. Marcus will call Chandler roofing for second quote on roof

11. Public comments – there were none

12. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Erin from Xcel Energy called Clerk Jessica Jacobson regarding payment remit

13. Meeting adjourned at 8:30pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                       November 2nd, 2023     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The November 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from October board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Andrew Jenson presented up from an email from Commissioner Flanders regarding broadband project, three companies are interested in the project. Mike Creglow noted that he is working on getting broadband to 130th and Welch Trail

   2. Jim Goham/Sheriff’s Office. They have been receiving lots of calls, traffic complaints and mental health. They have 7 guys in field training that will be out patrolling soon.

4. Hearings (as required) – Janet Schwindt/Joe Waller 23635 Hwy 316 Blvd, Hastings.

   1. Board meeting recessed at 7:09pm, begin variance hearing

   2. Request to construct attached garage onto existing accessory dwelling unit

   3. 34 feet from property line

   4. 2 car garage on back side of building

   5. Planning commission has recommended this for approval, because the set back issue was created by the previous owner when land was split

   6. Public comment asked for three times – there were no public comments

   7. Darwin Fox made a motion to close public comment, Marcus Johnson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

   8. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve variance, Marcus Johnson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

   9. $500 fee for the variance hearing

   10. Darwin Fox made a motion to close the variance hearing, Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

   11. Board meeting resumed at 7:20pm

5. Building permit requests – there were none

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. At the last meeting, planning commission heard the request for variance from Joe Waller

   2. Darwin mentioned that if the Township would like to charge a fee for utility installations in the road right of way, this would need to be a permit, like our driveway permits, not an ordinance

      1. Could potentially be put in escrow until installation is complete to cover any repairs needed

      2. Could be open ended fees based on project

      3. Would need to do a resolution

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. County Planning Commission had no October meetings due to no requests

   2. Also noted that solar farms see to be at capacity in the County

9. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Fiber company (MN SE Wifi) has not cleaned up mess yet

   2. Working on blading, geared up for snow

   3. Fuel surcharge added to invoices when it exceeds threshold, this is common practice

      1. Clerk received email regarding this, it will be clearly labeled on invoices

10. Items for discussion

    1. Tires on side of road – Clerk displayed pictures

       1. 70 tires were dumped on 265th 2-3 weeks ago, Luhman’s has cleaned these up

    2. Township website is back up and running, minutes and agenda have been added, high level domain fee has been paid

    3. Town Hall building updates

       1. Liz is setting up meeting with John Otto to look at the building, and to get pricing for minimum repair and to bring it up to code (two quotes), may also request pricing to install a ramp. Marcus Johnson noted that John Otto is not a licensed contractor

       2. Mike Creglow already has numbers for new building

       3. Mike Creglow has estimate to replace the roof - $12,700 Renner

          1. Marcus Johnson will call Chandler roofing for a second estimate, Mike Creglow will call Renner to update estimate to include removing the chimney

       4. It was noted that the furnace would not start for the meeting, Marcus Johnson will call Smith Heating for repair

    4. Township Road Mileage

       1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received form to complete regarding road mileage, mileage on form was 35.91, it was determined that this number is correct. Jessica to complete and return form to Goodhue County Public Works

11. Public comments – there were none

12. Clerk’s contacts

    1. Email received from Luhman’s construction regarding fuel surcharge, see above notes for details

Meeting adjourned at 8:15pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                          October 5th, 2023        
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The October 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from September board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance – Commissioner Linda Flanders

   1. Prairie Island Indian Community is putting some land in trust, a packet was sent out by Lisa Hanni at Goodhue County

   2. Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office is taking over patrolling for the City of Goodhue, they are currently deciding if they need more staff for this, a contract was done for one year

      1. The state of MN is short 600 law enforcement officers

4. Hearings (as required) – there were none

5. Building permit requests

   1. Daryl Sanford for Ronald Sanford – 30x45 pole barn, cost $39,300; Daryl came to the board meeting with information that Ronald did not have at the planning commission meeting (measurements); the plans meet township setbacks

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve the building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded; motion passed unanimously

      2. Permit was granted and a $30.00 fee was paid

   2. Joseph Waller – remodel store on property into second residence, was at planning commission meeting, project has been split into two, this is the first phase, will need a variance for the second phase, first phase cost is $30,000-35,000

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve the building permit, Andrew Jenson seconded; motion passed unanimously

      2. Permit was granted and a $30.00 fee was paid

      3. Note: variance for second phase of this project will be started. Joe will attend the next planning commission meeting, and variance hearing will be scheduled for same date as next board meeting

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Liz Pasch

   1. There were two permit requests, same two that were heard at this board meeting

   2. Ellen Hartman has resigned from the Planning Commission

      1. Planning Commission needs a minimum of 5 members, which we still have, could ad a sixth, but not urgent

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – no update

9. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Roads are bladed, one tree was down, putting signs back up from last meeting, new yield sign coming, doing some ditching and cutting edges, roads are generally in good shape

   2. Issue: Contractor burying fiber along roads, pulling rocks up, could cause issue with maintenance of roads

      1. Andy Jenson will contact Nick Jablonske at SE MN Wifi regarding his intentions

10. Items for discussion

    1. 2024 Sealcoating & Bituminous agreement was discussed, and board was not interested in taking part. No response required if not participating

    2. Township website – email from Mike Creglow

       1. Weebly has been bought out by Square, and has since started charging $120 per year. This has been paid in March. They are now also charging $30 per year for the domain name. At this time, the website has been disabled. If $30 is paid, the website will go back up, and we will have time to decide if we would like to stay with Square, or use a different platform. It was discussed that it would make most sense to pay the $30, since the $120 fee was paid in March. This will keep the website up until March 2024

       2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay the $30 per year fee at this time for the domain name. Andrew Jenson seconded. Motion passed unanimously

    3. PIIC Road Agreement/LRIP Funding – Cristina Mlejnek of Bolton & Menk

       1. A short power point presentation was viewed

       2. Next steps for the road agreement are to (1) choose a bank for the escrow account, and (2) write the exhibits

       3. Bolton & Menk would like to apply for LRIP funding on behalf of Welch Township, they have done this for us before. Cristina is hoping to have funding approved for both 130th and Prairie Island Blvd

          1. 130th – will be requesting $1.35M, total cost $1.62M

          2. Prairie Island Blvd – will be requesting $662,000, total cost $751,000

          3. Aaron Bauer made a motion to have Bolton & Menk apply for LRIP funding on behalf of Welch Township, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

    4. Notice of Non-Gaming Land Acquisition Application – Welch Township received this notice from the United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs on 9/25/2023. There are four points to be responded to as well as an invitation for any written comments. This is due within 30 days of receipt of the notice

       1. Welch Township also received a copy of Goodhue County’s response to this notice

       2. Four points to be answered

          1. Annual amount or property taxes currently levied (answered by county)

             1. Parcel 46.026.0300 $3120 for 2023

             2. Parcel 46.035.0300 $988 for 2023

          2. Special assessments, if any (answered by county)

             1. There are none for either parcel

          3. Any governmental services that are currently provided to the property

             1. Fire services (to be answered by township)

          4. If subject to zoning, how the intended use is consistent, or inconsistent, with zoning

             1. It is consistent (to be answered by township

       3. Jessica to prepare response and mail

    5. Voting Operations, Technology, and elections Resources Amount

       1. Goodhue County reached out to clerk about entering into an agreement regarding voting operations. In the past Goodhue County has paid funds to Townships for costs associated with elections and voting equipment. Then the County pays these expenses and bills the townships for them. They are request to enter into an agreement where townships would allow the county to keep the funds, eliminating the need to bill townships later. A copy of the agreement was reviewed by supervisors

       2. Andrew Jenson made a motion enter the agreement. Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       3. Jessica Jacobson to complete, sign, and return the agreement to Goodhue County

    6. SE MN Wifi – Jessica Jacobson received an email from Nick Jablonske at Southeast MN Wifi. The county has approved an extension of his Wifi project in Welch Township to include 155th Ave, adding 7 more homes to the project. Nick is looking for Welch Township to agree to contribute another $2295. The township originally committed to $5902. This would make the total $8197.

       1. Linda Flanders confirmed that the county has already approved the extension Nick is describing

       2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to contribute an additional $2295 to the SE MN Wifi project in Welch Township. Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

       3. Jessica Jacobson to email Nick Jablonske

    7. Sewer Levy Resolution – at last meeting, a motion was passed to change the sewer levy amounts. Resolution was created and brought to October meeting to be signed

       1. Resolution was signed by Andrew Jenson, Aaron Bauer, and Jessica Jacobson. Marcus Johnson was absent

       2. Jessica Jacobson to finish the work on the sewer levy and send to Goodhue County

    8. Polling Place Resolution – Goodhue County has requested a resolution regarding polling places, even if we are not making any changes. Clerk Jessica Jacobson had resolution prepared for polling places to remain as they have been in the past. State and Federal elections will be held at the Red Wing Fire Department Station 2, and Township annual meeting and elections will be held at the Welch Town Hall. Resolution was signed by Andrew Jenson, Aaron Bauer, and Jessica Jacobson. Marcus Johnson was absent.

       1. A motion was made by Andrew Jenson to leave polling places the same as in the past. Aaron Bauer seconded. Motion passed unanimously

       2. Jessica will send resolution to the county

    9. It was noted to add to upcoming agendas a schedule for starting the furnace

       1. Nov/Dec – Aaron

       2. Jan/Feb – Marcus

       3. Mar/Apr - Andrew

11. Public comments

    1. Ken Slingsby – Will the town hall be sprayed for bugs? Was noted that it is late in the season

    2. Liz Pasch – Repairs to building or build new

       1. Discussion had around starting a committee. This has also been discussed at recent meetings. Supervisors have asked around and not found any interest from the public on joining a committee

       2. Mike Creglow has done a feasibility study on this, has information in a spreadsheet

       3. Aaron Bauer suggested we come up with three plans. Also suggested that we schedule a special meeting prior to the annual meeting in 2024, and information meeting for the public

       4. Liz will work on forming a committee

12. Clerk’s contacts

13. Meeting adjourned at 8:11pm. Andrew Jenson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded

 

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                       September 7th, 2023     
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The September 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:07pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from August board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed with Marcus Johnson abstaining

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. Check# 2111 for the SSD account was voided

   2. Treasurer Tom noted that all (7) CD’s are now moved to Edward Jones, there is also a savings account set up at Edward Jones for any amounts less than $1000 (CD minimum)

   3. Aaron Bauer noted that the Nuvera bill is quite high at $125 per month, when we only use the internet about 2 hour per month. Aaron suggested that Mike Creglow inquire if they could bill by usage, Mike noted he has already asked about government pricing. Tom Ryan noted that we could use COVID funds to pay this bill

   4. Tom will start bringing cash control reports to each meeting for the supervisors to analyze fund balances

   5. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance – Commissioner Linda Flanders

   1. Will check with Nuvera about 130th. Aaron Bauer stated that he has received calls and a contract to sign up with them

   2. County has done their road tour. Two bridges in Welch Township to be replaced in 2025, both at once. Public Works will let people the plan. Supervisors asked if the township might be able to get extra calcium chloride paid for by the county if detour is on our gravel roads, and also asked if it would be possible to work around the tubing season. Linda will bring these concerns back to the county.

   3. River clean up: Starting new campaign. Hmong community comes to fish and is leaving trash. The videos that have been made will be translated into Hmong. Signs are already in English, Hmong, and Spanish. The Mississippi is an endangered river. Supervisors suggested that this be added to the hunting and fishing rule book.

4. Hearings (as required) – there were none

5. Building permit requests – there were none

6. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Andrew Jenson

   1. There were no building permit requests

8. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – no update

9. Road Update – Andrew Jenson

   1. Finished ditching by Brent McGrath

   2. Doing some mowing and hoping to do more as time allows

   3. It was noted that the road fund is dwindling, and then discussed

      1. Can transfer from other funds

      2. Expenses up in June/July, more work done this summer than last year

      3. Could we chloride all roads and then wouldn’t need to grade? Possibly something to research

         1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson noted that at the 2023 Annual Meeting, Darwin stated that it would cost $130,000 to chloride all roads in the township

10. Items for discussion

    1. Lot frontage along public road WA-2 zone, WR-1 zone

       1. Do you need road frontage when creating new parcel. This is regarding section 26 (WA-2)

       2. Marcus Johnson received call from realtor with questions. When reading the ordinances, it was noted that WA-2 and WR-1 have different requirements for road frontage, and wanted to bring that to the attention of the Planning Commission

       3. Planning Commission will discuss at their next meeting

    2. Septic Assessments

       1. SSD account has a balance of $53,000; both pumps have been replaced; tank is in good shape, no need to replace soon; pump & controls near Cannon River Inn were replaced in 2020; should be no more work to be done for 15 years

       2. Currently there is $16,700 coming into the SSD account  per year

       3. Aaron Bauer made a motion to change the assessments to $500 per year for residents and $925 per year for businesses, Andrew Jenson seconded; there was not vote as more discussion was had

       4. Ordinance states that there is a $100 surcharge for businesses, so we would be unable to assess at these rates without changing the ordinance

       5. Aaron Bauer made a motion to assess $500 per year for residents and $600 per year for businesses, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

    3. PIIC Road Agreement/LRIP Funding

       1. If agreement is made with PIIC, the township would ask that they assist with LRIP application, as they have in the past

       2. Most recent version of the road agreement received 7/27/23

          1. Select a bank for escrow with terms that both parties can accept

          2. Exhibits a, b, and c: need attachments

       3. Clerk Jessica Jacobson to schedule call with Einar re:

          1. Incorrect township address in agreement

          2. Exhibits a, b, and c

          3. Please prepare document ready to be executed

          4. Should PIIC sign first?

       4. Road signs to be repaired

          1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received email from Ken Slingsby regarding signs that need to be repaired, but did not receive clarification on where.

          2. Aaron was aware of the signs and will have Darwin take care of this

11. Public comments

12. Clerk’s contacts

13. Meeting adjourned at 9:03pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                           August 3rd, 2023         
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The August 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from July board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

1. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance – there were none

2. Hearings (as required) – there were none

3. Building permit requests

   1. Garrett & Jessica Kitzman requested a permit to teardown and rebuild a shed. The building is 2000 square feet. Planning Commission recommended for approval, due to rebuilding in the same space.

      1. Project value is $100,000

      2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to grant the permit, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      3. A building permit fee of $100 was paid

   2. Randy Peine requested a permit to build addition to shop for ag storage. This meets all setbacks and was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission.

      1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to grant the permit, Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      2. A building permit fee of $25.00 was paid. Flat $25.00 fee for agricultural

   3. Mike Bauer came before the board with questions about a permit to put in a pool, and was advised to attend the next Planning Commission meeting. Discussion continued and it was offered to Mike to have Planning Commission members review, then board members review. This incurs an additional fee of $250. Mike asked to proceed, in order to obtain the permit same day. Pool will be in the front yard of the property, and meets all setbacks

      1. Planning Commission: Mike Creglow made a motion to recommend for approval, Darwin Fox seconded. The motion was passed unanimously. (Planning Commission members present – Darwin Fox, Mike Creglow, Thomas Ryan, Andrew Jenson)

      2. Board: Aaron Bauer made a motion to grant the permit, Andrew Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      3. Value of project is $100,000

      4. A building permit fee of $100 + $250 special fee = $350 total was paid

4. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

5. Fire Contract with Miesville Fire was reviewed, contract date: 5/1/23-4/30/25

   1. Cost is $71,126.04 for 2023-24, and $74,682.36 for 2024-25

   2. Two equal payments can be made 7/15/23 and 12/23, and then again 7/15/24 and 12/15/24

   3. A motion was made by Aaron Bauer to approve, seconded by Andrew Jenson. The motion passed unanimously

   4. Agreement was signed by all board members, treasurer and clerk

   5. Clerk to return agreement

6. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Randy Peine came with a permit request

   2. Joel Waller came with a variance question for accessory dwelling. No approval from Township yet, just acknowledged that Township knows about request. Needs variance from County due to distance from home. County might need to change use, then Joel will come back to Township for permit

7. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Conditional use for four horses

8. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Oscar Daley’s road cleaned up

   2. Finished up work from Xcel’s work today

   3. Finished 130th

   4. Appliances cleaned up

   5. Rocked Orlando

   6. Gaining on list of work to be done

9. Meeting was recessed at 7:42p and annual meeting reconvened at that same time

   1. Annual meeting: revisited levy, no changes made from approval at the annual meeting on 3/14/2023. There were no comments from the public. Amounts approved at the annual meeting were $9000 general, $250,000 road and bridge, $65,000 fire and ambulance

      1. A motion was made at 7:46p by Aaron Bauer to close out the annual meeting, seconded by Andrew Jenson. The motion was passed unanimously

10. Regular Board Meeting was reopened at 7:46p

11. Items for discussion

    1. Broadband survey received by Clerk from Goodhue County. Will forward to some residents and ask that they forward as well. Will attempt to add to website. This is also available on County website

    2. Audiovisual equipment – Mike Creglow

       1. Has been ordered and will be set up for next meeting

    3. Aaron received call from Miesville requesting all addresses in Welch Township. He was able to get the list from Goodhue County. He also received 3’x3’ color coded maps

    4. It was noted that the SSD alarm on the Frawley property had gone off. Advanced Septic made some adjustments to the alarms, nothing was wrong

12. Public comments

    1. Mike Creglow stated that he received an email from Linda Flanders regarding Southeast MN Wifi (Nick Jablonske) wants to add additional houses on 155th. Has this been ok’d by the county? He will be coming back to township to request more funds

    2. Tom Ryan asked about building maintenance, ceiling falling in entryway. Last meeting we discussed forming sub-committees to research repair vs. build new. This will be discussed at a later time

13. Clerk’s contacts

14. Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                              July 6th, 2023            
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The July 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:05pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Vice Treasurer Kevin Gardner, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from June board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Vice Treasurer Kevin Gardner for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. NOTE: Check #6738 was voided

1. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Flanders

      1. Broadband

         1. Nick Jablonske applied for Goodhue County grant for broadband project, this is up for vote on 7/18/2023, he was the only applicant for the grant

         2. At the state level there is $100M more for broadband

         3. Biden’s infrastructure bill has $65M for broadband

         4. There is not a lot of action from service providers

         5. There has been a recent round table discussion regarding how to get the entire county access to broadband internet

      2. Notice of Public Hearing regarding proposed amendments to Article 10, Article 11, and Article 20 (Goodhue County)

         1. Commissioner Flanders explained the difference between:

            1. Conditional use permit: stays with the property if/when property sold

            2. Interim use permit: ends if/when property is sold

         2. Darwin added that there has been some changes to language to clarify “agritourism,” this has been worked on by a sub-committee for 2 years

      3. County Board Meeting, dogs at large

         1. If a township adopts an ordinance, it is up to the township to enforce, even if it is the same as county. However, if an ordinance is county only, the county will enforce

2. Hearings (as required) – there were none

3. Building permit requests

   1. Tim Clancy on behalf of Matt Chowen – solar project

      1. 26175 160th Ave Way

      2. Revisions made since planning commission meeting to meet set backs of 100 feet

      3. Estimated cost of project: $14,300

      4. Marcus Johnson made a motion to approve permit request, Aaron Bauer seconded. Motion passed unanimously

      5. Mr. Clancy paid a permit fee of $25

   2. Wayne Kenny on behalf of Duke Bjorklund – 4 season porch

      1. 135th St way

      2. 14x20 off back of the home, this meets all set backs

      3. Estimated cost of project: $30,000

      4. Request reviewed by planning commission members Darwin Fox, Mike Creglow, and Andy Jenson. Darwin Fox made a motion to recommend approval of building permit, Mike Creglow seconded. Motion passed unanimously

      5. Request then reviewed by board. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve building permit, Andy Jenson seconded. The motion passed unanimously

      6. Permit fee will be $30.00 + $250.00 fee for planning commission to review outside of a scheduled meeting. Total $280.00. Mr. Kenny will schedule time to meet with Clerk Jessica Jacobson to pay fee and have permit signed. Jessica will deliver payment to Treasurer

4. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

   2. Bill for septic work was added

5. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Welch Township Planning Commission: There were two permit requests heard at the June Planning Commission meeting.

6. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. 130th is looking nice, lots of work done: blading, mowing chloride

   2. They have been on most roads

   3. Xcel has finished with their line work

      1. 228th needs some rock and blading

      2. 230th has low spot, needs some rock and blading

      3. 155th needs rock and blading

         1. All of this work should be billed to Xcel, experience with them has been good

7. Items for discussion

   1. Bank has two CD’s due on the 9th, new date would be 7/9/24, each is $10,685, email from Michael H. Collins at First State Bank states there are three CD’s coming due all with a principal balance of $10,685.12. They are currently earning .2% interest. He offers new CD’s at 4.65% for 3 months, 4.75% for 6 months, and 5.10% for one year. These rates are all lower than what is offered at Edward Jones. First State Bank also increased the Township’s checking accounts interest rates, one from 0% to .85% and the other from .35% to 1.60%.

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to move all CD’s coming due in July from First State Bank to Edward Jones. Andrew Jenson seconded. Aaron Bauer and Andrew Jenson voted in favor, Marcus Johnson opposed. The motion carried.

   2. TV/Computer for Town Hall – Mike Creglow

      1. Total cost approximately $713, laid out in email from Mike Creglow

      2. Discussion around equipment withstanding weather changes when building is not consistently heated/cooled

      3. Would be set up on a portable cart

      4. Discussed and decided that PC would be used

      5. Aaron Bauer made a motion to move forward with purchasing the equipment, Andrew Jenson seconded, motion passed unanimously

   3. Building Maintenance

      1. Issues discussed included door security and ceiling falling in the entryway

      2. New building? Douglas Township, new building is about $350k, but more costs are coming up, inspectors involved

      3. Questions brought up about building new building. Sell the existing building? Move it? Keep the land?

      4. Concluded that more research is needed, and perhaps a public meeting needs to be scheduled. Jessica Jacobson to look into this as well as getting voter permission to move forward with repairs or new building

      5. Question asked if we expect growth in the Township (need for larger town hall building). The township does not expect much growth.

8. Public comments

9. Clerk’s contacts

10. Meeting adjourned at 8:34pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
                                                                                              June 1st, 2023           
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The June 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from May board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, motion passed unanimously

2. NOTE: Check #2104 was voided

3. Treasurer Tom Ryan stated that two CD’s at First State Bank came due in May

   1. One in the amount of $16,000 was added to a $16,000 CD at Edward Jones for a total of $32,000

   2. The second CD that came due will be added to the September CD at Edward Jones. These funds could sit in the Edward Jones account until then, or could go into a short term CD until it can be added to the other in September. CD rates have gone up. 5.2% for a 3 month. The board agreed to do a short term CD until these funds can be added to the September CD

1. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Deputy Jim Goham was present, for any questions. There were none

2. Hearings (as required) – there were none

3. Building permit requests – there were none

4. Current bills

   1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

5. Planning Commission update – Liz Pasch

   1. Welch Township Planning Commission: There were no guests and no building permit requests at the May Planning Commission meeting, all members were present

6. Road Update – Aaron Bauer

   1. They are working on 130th, ditching

   2. Chloride has been going on in sections

7. Items for discussion

   1. Southeast MN WiFi – Nick Jablonske

      1. Southeast MN WiFi is building a network just north of Welch Township. Goodhue County has contacted them and a meeting was held. Numbers were put together, and project is not feasible in such a rural area. There are grants available and Goodhue County would like Southeast MN WiFi to apply. Part of the application process is to ask the Township what they would contribute towards the project

      2. Total project cost is $236,080. The goal is to have the Township contribute 5%, or $5,902

      3. Project area is Ravenna to 255th, with 18 homes, and could be build on more at a later time. Steer Underground does the installation

      4. There was a brief discussion about how deep the fiber is laid. Nick stated that 3 feet is a good goal but cannot always be met. He suggested we look at what Ravenna Township does as far as permits

      5. Flyers would be sent to neighbors

      6. Goodhue County would like to see this project done

      7. A pricing sheet was given to board members

      8. Aaron Bauer noted that the Township has COVID funds that could be used for internet service, and that we paid $5000 towards the Nuvera project. Also noted that the Township should be supporting high speed internet access

      9. Mike Creglow noted that these projects are typically 70% cost to provider and 30% cost to county/township

      10. Marcus Johnson noted that it would be nice to fill in the gaps of internet availability. Nuvera started from the south and this project would start coming in from the north

      11. Aaron Bauer made a motion to contribute $5,902 to the project if grant is approved, Marcus seconded. Motion passed unanimously

          1. Nick will email form to Jessica regarding commitment to contribution

   2. Blue Dog Café – Britton and Jenny Good

      1. Blue Dog Café was invited to join in conversation with the Welch Township Board about the construction of a deck on the front of their restaurant

      2. Township issue is that the permit granted by Welch Township failed to reflect the correct size after construction was completed, structure is in the road (public thoroughfare), in the road right-of-way. Also, other residents could complain or not follow stipulations of their building permits

      3. Depth of the deck was originally 8’3” in the permit request, the final build is 10’ (outside of the posts. The construction plans needed to be altered because of the fiber lines that were laid after the permit request, but before construction. Britton Good stated that the inspector ok’d the changes

         1. Jenny Good noted that the picnic tables that were out front for the last five summers stuck out further than the deck

            1. Marcus explained that the tables were not permanent structures

            2. Britton Good then noted that the bike racks were there for 18 years and were permanent structures

      4. Township Board reviewed the permits

      5. The Goods plan to purchase the adjacent property, but cannot move forward with that until next year, when outstanding taxes on the property have been resolved. The long term plan would then be to move the deck stairs to the side instead of the front

         1. They stated that the plan is to have the stairs moved with in a year and a half

      6. Clerk Jessica Jacobson to draft a letter acknowledging that the deck stairs are in the road right of way, and that the stairs may need to be removed at owner’s expense for repaving or infrastructure installation or repair

      7. Aaron Bauer made a motion to amend the existing permit, Andrew Jenson seconded, the motion carried unanimously

   3. Bleu Dog Café – Liquor License

      1. Chairman Andrew Jenson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson signed

   4. L0549 Bridge Proposal

      1. Chairman Andrew Jenson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson signed engineering agreement with Erickson Engineering Co, LLC after a brief discussion

      2. Jessica to email contract back to Erickson Engineering

   5. PIIC Agreement

      1. Township Board reviewed email from the township attorney regarding revisions to the road agreement with Prairie Island Indian Community

      2. Section one: Board is in agreement with the changes made to number four

      3. Section two: Under number two, paragraph B and C there were some issues with the wording

         1. Marcus will respond to township attorney

      4. Section three: Einar does not have issue with the wording, township will default to Einar’s advice

8. Public comments

   1. Lift pumps by the creamery – Aaron Bauer

      1. Advanced Septic has been out twice recently. One pump is failing. Aaron requested a bid from Ben at Advanced Septic to replace the pump. The quote is for $11,931.40 for two pumps and electrical

      2. The primary pumps were replace last year, these are the secondary pumps

      3. It was agreed that the quote seems very fair, and this is something that should be repaired before winter. This is also the last piece to be updated

      4. Andrew Jenson made a motion to replace the pumps, Marcus Johnson seconded, the motion passed unanimously

      5. Aaron will call Advanced Septic to have the work done

   2. Aaron Bauer was contacted by anonymous resident regarding 145th Ave stating that road had been graded and was dusty, inquired about when road would have chloride put down. Aaron explained that it had been done

   3. Liz Pasch asked if there is a deadline for roads to have chloride applied. Aaron explained, in Darwin’s absence, that it can vary each year, and can depend on when roads are re-rocked

   4. Mike Creglow asked if the Township Board would like a central phone number with a phone tree, this is a possibility. No action to be taken on this at this time

9. Clerk’s contacts  - there were none

10. Meeting adjourned at 8:35pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
May 4th, 2023
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The May 2023 Board Meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:04pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Aaron Bauer, Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from April board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

1. Marcus Johnson asked to see invoice from Strobel and Hanson, invoice was reviewed, Thomas Ryan will call to double check billing

2. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Marcus Johnson, motion passed unanimously

1. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Linda Flanders

      1. River clean up has been postponed due to high waters, new date is 5/20/23 9:00am-11:00am

         1. Eight different counties have offered to participate in their areas, they will send pictures and include number of people participating. The Governor’s office will sign a certificate for the winner

      2. Broadband

         1. Nuvera will not apply for county grant, but will be applying to DEED for bigger projects, but those projects will not be in Goodhue County

         2. $16 million for non-rural and $40 million for rural

            1. Currently costs $60,000 per mile

         3. Grant for technical assistance especially in rural areas

            1. Applying for this funding

            2. Find underserved areas and plan out how to remedy

         4. New Human Services bill to upgrade Township websites, hoping this will pass

2. Hearings (as required)

   1. Regular Board Meeting recessed from 7:21-7:28pm for variance hearing for Phil Finucan

      1. Planning Commission members present: Darwin Fox, Liz Pasch, Mike Creglow

      2. Project is a lean-to with an estimated cost of $4,000.00

      3. Setback issue to sideline, 22-23’ to the foundation, 20’ to the overhang

      4. The foundation is already there, and Mr. Finucan is unable to build on the other side due to the septic system

      5. Public comment:

         1. Lonnie Thompson  – stated he has no issue with the project

            1. Mr. Thompson is Mr. Finucan’s neighbor to the west, closest to the property line that is being considered for the variance

         2. Adam Bauer – Stated he stopped over to Mr. Finucan’s, there is limited space to build, this would be the only spot. Adam has no issue with the project. He stated this is challenging due to the setbacks

      6. Darwin Fox made a motion to approve, Liz Pasch seconded. Motion passed unanimously

      7. Mr. Finucan paid a $250 variance fee as well as a $25 building permit fee

      8. Variance hearing was closed at 7:28pm

3. Building permit requests – there were none

4. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded, motion passed unanimously

5. Planning Commission update – Liz Pasch

   1. Welch Township Planning Commission: There were no guests and no building permit requests at the April Planning Commission meeting

6. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Road tour was last Friday

   2. Darwin picked up the tires that were located on road

   3. They have been out blading

   4. There are still some trees to pick up

   5. Roads are in good shape, drying out fast

7. Items for discussion

   1. Update on Town Hall pricing – Mike Creglow – this project is complete

   2. Internet service – Mike Creglow – Received an email from Nick Jablonske of SE MN WIFI regarding a possible project to bring high speed internet from Ravenna to 145th, hopefully he will bring a bid and would then apply for funding to pay for the project

   3. Town Hall wifi – Mike Creglow – there are three different accounts

      1. One for Town Board and Planning Commission with a password

      2. Two for the public

         1. There was a brief discussion around putting a password on the public accounts with some concern about people using it during non-meeting times. Marcus Johnson pointed out that we might want a password for liability reasons. Amanda Johnson-White pointed out that if there is an emergency and internet is needed, there is internet at the bar, and also good cellular service at the tail head.

         2. It was decided that the public accounts would be turned off when meetings are not in session

   4. Discussion around the installation of fiber for internet service

      1. Aaron Bauer asked if there is any concern regarding ditches when fiber is being laid, and should the Township require a permit for this?

      2. Darwin Fox stated that there are policies in place for this, but it could cost the township if they are not followed

      3. Mike Creglow added that when Nuvera came through, they only installed on county roads, no township roads. It was also noted that Metro and Dakota Counties have requirement to be below the frost line

      4. Liz Pasch added that highspeed internet access in rural areas is an issue

      5. Planning Commission will discuss this further at their next meeting, 5/25/23

8. Public comments

   1. Todd and Kris Portinga brought concern about the ditches on 225th to the east of their driveway

      1. There have been washing machines, dryers and other debris, it is a chronic issue

      2. Can the Township post something?

      3. Commissioner Flanders noted that Jessie Nowak has contacted the county regarding this. Commissioner Flanders has spoken to Public Works, there is no funding there. She also brought this issue to the County Board. They are in talks of possible solutions. She stated that all commissioners have received similar complaints. It was also noted that their will be reporter at the River Clean up if anyone would like to be interviewed

   2. Liz Pasch asked if there has been a decision made regarding calcium chloride on additional roads

      1. This is not feasible with the Township budget. Calcium chloride will be applied as it has been in the past

   3. Lift pump alarm – Aaron Bauer has received two calls

      1. Ben from Advanced Septic has tested the pump and it is functioning fine. The audio alarm has been turned off. Aaron will have Advance Septic quote a replacement

      2. Call Aaron if the light comes on

9. Clerk’s contacts  - there were none

10. Meeting adjourned at 8:00pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Marcus Johnson seconded

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
April 6th, 2023
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The April 2023 reorganization meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Aaron Bauer at 6:59 pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Marcus Johnson, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from March board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Marcus and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

   1. Minutes were signed by Vice Chair Aaron Bauer.

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Aaron Bauer, motion passed unanimously

   2. During the Treasurer’s report, Thomas Ryan indicated that one supervisor and the clerk need to stop at First State Bank to sign for the CD that will be cashed out to move to Edward Jones. This should be done the week of 4/10/2023.

3. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Sheriff’s Office – Marty Kelly and John Hunecke

      1. Annual reports for the Sheriff’s office were left for any residents wanting a copy. They are also on the Sheriff’s Office website

      2. Jail has been understaffed by 5 for about 3 years, slowly recovering

      3. Road staff had 6 openings in January, 4 of which have been hired

      4. 106 employees when fully staffed

      5. In 2022, biggest accomplishment was solving 2 of the baby cases. Lots of technology used. Still working on the 2008 baby case at the Treasure Island Marina

      6. New emergency manager hired

   2. Commissioner Linda Flanders

      1. River clean-up at Sturgeon Lake Road and County 18 on 4/22/23 from 9am-11am

         1. 5/20/2023 is alternate date in case of inclement weather

         2. County Commissioners all up and down the river have been invited

         3. Counties and city councils have been invited

         4. Aaron Bauer suggested having an officer from the Sheriff’s Office present

         5. It was noted that there are new “no parking” signs and new “pack in/pack out” signs

      2. Broadband

         1. Town Hall does not have internet access yet

         2. Mike Creglow has a meeting with Nuvera on 4/18/23

         3. $4 million project. Still waiting on funds from USDA

         4. The areas left to get high speed internet access are very expensive per hook up

4. Hearings (as required) – there were none

5. Building permit requests

   1. Kelly Daley & Diane Neubauer: request for permit to build an attached garage to their existing home and a covered porch on the front of the house. Both additions meet all setback requirements

      1. Estimated cost is $100,000

      2. Motion to approve made by Marcus Johnson, seconded by Aaron Bauer, passed unanimously

      3. Fee of $100 paid

   2. Phil Finucan: Planning commission did not recommend building permit request for lean-to because it does not meet setback requirements. Owner will need to apply for a variance through Welch Township and through Goodhue County. Phil noted that the neighbor does not object.

      1. Hearing will need to be held. Clerk will notify 10 closest neighbors, or ½ mile radius, and will publish/post. Hearing to be held during the May 4th Town Board Meeting

         1. Fee of $250 for the hearing. Phil was notified verbally of this.

   3. Rodney Ries: request to build ag building on property he is purchasing from his father. He was not present at the April Town Board Meeting. It was noted that there is no building section on this property, and he is also not yet the land owner.

6. Current bills

   1. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded, motion passed unanimously

7. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Welch Township Planning Commission:

      1. Ron Fox made inquiry, looking at buying a property that he is already farming

      2. Could he put up a temporary house while they build?

         1. There is nothing against doing this, but would possibly put a time limit on it

   2. Goodhue County Planning Commission:

      1. Conditional use/zoning being reviewed for Haycreek Campsite, to expand by 60 sites

      2. Working on language clean up

8. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Roads are soft, lots of trees down, bladed this afternoon, filling pot holes and soft spots

   2. Road Tour is set for 4/28/23 at 2:00pm, board to meet at Aaron Bauer home

   3. Liz Pasch asking if resident see road issues, what is the procedure to report that?

      1. Call a board member

      2. Jessica Jacobson will look into adding this to the website

9. Reorganization

   1. Re-elected officials, Supervisor Marcus Johnson and Treasurer Thomas Ryan, were sworn in immediately following the meeting

   2. New board chair is Andrew Jenson, based on rotation

   3. Meeting schedule for 2023 was reviewed, and it was noted that the November Planning Commission meeting that falls on Thanksgiving will be held the day before (Wednesday)

   4. Clerk Jessica Jacobson asked if there was any desire to change official newspaper, posting place, compensation, or township bank

      1. There were no motions to make any changes

   5. List of officers to be updated by Clerk Jessica Jacobson, then sent to Goodhue County and posted to Township website

10. Items for discussion

    1. L0549 Agreement

       1. Jessica Jacobson followed up with Public Works regarding revocability of the agreement. The agreement is binding

       2. There is an option of bridge or culvert

       3. Marcus Johnson to call Greg Isakson

       4. This agreement has already been signed, and will need to be returned to Goodhue County Public Works

    2. Update on Town Hall pricing – Mike Creglow

       1. Estimate to renovate existing town hall building is approximately $391,000; detail is in spreadsheet

       2. This is a little less than the cost to build a new town hall building

       3. Mike will email spreadsheet to Jessica Jacobson

       4. Mike also noted that internet will be connected at the Town Hall soon

    3. Post Office – Marcus Johnson

       1. Marcus received call/email about opening a new post office in Welch. Person is looking for suggestions on location (permanent)

       2. Question was asked about if this would need to be in the hamlet

       3. Suggested that it be at Welch Village Ski Hill. However, this is located in Vasa. Liz Pasch will give contact information to Marcus

    4. Head Property

       1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received a letter from Russ and Beverly Head giving an explanation of what is happening on their property after they attended the March Board Meeting. They stated the following:

          1. Let’s Go Trucking has been storing roll-off containers on the property and will have them all removed by 5/15/23

          2. Ownership of the land will be changing, selling to their son, Richard A. Ries. This will happen no later than 7/31/23

          3. Rick is having plans drawn up to build out one of the existing barns into a home which he will then occupy

          4. Rick will apply for conditional us permit for his own use once he takes ownership of the property

          5. Rick will be getting a couple head of cattle to raise on the property

       2. Board members were satisfied with this explanation

    5. Bleu Dog Café Deck

       1. It was brought to the attention of the board that the deck built at the Bleu Dog Café appears to be larger than what was requested in their building permit

       2. The deck was not suppose to be further than 8 feet out from the building, and the steps go out even further

       3. Owners were said to be purchasing the property next door, could the stairs possibly be moved to the side, in front of the next door property?

       4. This creates liability for the Township

       5. Township is giving up roadway

       6. Motion made by Aaron Bauer to pull the permit and contact owners to discuss, Marcus seconded

          1. Motion passed unanimously

11. Public comments

    1. Adam Bauer – Thank you to Luhman’s Construction for road care. Also noted that 228th needs rock.

    2. Liz Pasch – Is Xcel repairing roads? Will roads be repaired to condition they were at before?

       1. They should be repairing during and after their work

12. Clerk’s contacts – Letter received from Russ and Beverly Head, see above

13. Meeting adjourned at 8:39pm. Marcus Johnson made a motion, Aaron Bauer seconded.

 

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
March 2, 2023
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
The March 2023 meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. Following the centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00 pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from February board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

   1. Minutes were signed by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson.

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

2. During the Treasurer’s report, Thomas Ryan indicated that one of the Township’s CD’s at First State Bank is coming due the day after the next board meeting. The Township currently has 5 CD’s left at First State Bank. Board members stated to roll the First State Bank CD into a CD at Edward Jones. Thomas Ryan will handle this.

1. Board members chose 3 receipts and 3 disbursements for Board of Audit

2. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Circle Drive – Clerk received email with concern about activity from Rebecca Peterson

      1. Rebecca was in attendance, and stated that a stolen truck was set on fire at the Carlson Farm

      2. Sheriff’s representative was in attendance to offer information

         1. Records have been pulled and there is not a lot of activity, or it is not reported

         2. Sheriff Deputies patrol this area

         3. Darwin Fox stated that he has received call regarding traffic on Circle Drive and Welch Short Cut Road in the middle of the night

         4. Concern express over the state of the Carlson Farm on Circle Drive. It was stated that eventually the County will clean up and assess the property. The Township Board has no power

         5. Sheriff’s representative encouraged residents to call the Sheriff’s office with any concerns. 651-385-3155 is the dispatch number

         6. It was noted that Mike Creglow has contacted the County regarding this property

         7. Sheriff’s representative noted that the Township can send a letter to the County regarding this concern

            1. Jessica Jacobson and Marcus Johnson will research

3. Hearings (as required) – there were none

4. Building permit requests

   1. Ian Radtke, 30x40 pole shed at top of hill, 165th Ave, off Circle Dr. This will be same slab as old building. The old barn is already gone. No set back issues. $25,000 cost estimate, $25 permit fee.

      1. This request was heard at the Town Board Meeting due to the Planning Commission Meeting being cancelled in February (weather).

      2. Planning Commission (members present: Darwin Fox, Mike Creglow, Tom Ryan, Andy Jenson)

         1. Mike Creglow made a motion to move forward, Tom Ryan seconded

      3. Town Board

         1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to approve, Andy Jenson seconded

      4. Both passed unanimously

5. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded

6. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. Welch Township Planning Commission Meeting cancelled in February due to weather conditions

   2. Goodhue County Planning Commission

      1. One conditional use permit, one board of adjustment meeting, working on cleaning up language in ordinances.

         1. Agritourism zoning, wedding venues, working on definitions

7. Road Update – Darwin Fox

   1. Roads are in good shape, lots of snow and rain

   2. Marcus Johnson stated that he received information from Commissioner Linda Flanders regarding a Goodhue County grant of $1500 for noxious weed control

      1. Requirement to aggressively mow 8 miles of road (one example). This could be 130th or Welch Trail

      2. Marcus will follow up with Chad Hildebrandt

8. Items for discussion

   1. Head property – Russell Head and Rick Ries

      1. It was explained that the Township received inquiries about the property

      2. Mr. Head and Mr. Ries explained that the house was knocked down, and shed was redone. Mr. Ries will be buying the property and rebuild barn (on same parcel) into living structure, with an architect doing the plans. He plans to raise cattle there.

      3. Supervisors asked about the commercial business that appears to be operating on the property. Mr. Ries stated the name of the business is “Let’s Go Trucking,” and the operators name is Dale Fritz. He states everything is in one shed and is on the same tax parcel. The business will continue to operate there, if allowable.

      4. Welch Township Planning Commission will need to further review. Darwin Fox from the Planning Commission explained that this may not fit zoning, and that they may need approval from Welch Township and/or Goodhue County, because this requires a conditional use permit.

      5. Darwin also stated that Mr. Ries would start with the Planning Commission for a building permit.

   2. L0549 Agreement

      1. Signed by Marcus Johnson and Andrew Jenson

      2. Jessica Jacobson to follow up with Public Works regarding revocability of the agreement before sending in

   3. Letter from Land Use Management regarding zoning

      1. Jessica Jacobson to bring this to planning commission meeting

   4. Update on Town Hall pricing – Mike Creglow

      1. Estimate to renovate existing town hall building is approximately $391,000; detail is in spreadsheet

      2. This is a little less than the cost to build a new town hall building

      3. Mike will email spreadsheet to Jessica Jacobson

      4. Mike also noted that internet will be connected at the Town Hall soon

   5. Township website pricing – Mike Creglow

      1. Mike is planning to meet with Ravenna Township and tour their building, but was cancelled, will be rescheduled

      2. Will review how they are using technology

      3. Also looking at their website

      4. Catalis – full service, $660 per year

      5. Weebly/Square, deadline is 3/21/23

         1. Luhman’s Construction can pay for the fee and add to their bill, due to township not having a credit card

   6. Annual Meeting Agenda

      1. Jessica Jacobson noted that the Township received letters from Goodhue County Fair and Goodhue County Historical Society regarding donations, as in the past

         1. Noted that this would need to be brought up and voted on at the annual meeting

      2. Approved by board with minor changes

      3. Motion by Aaron Bauer, seconded by Andrew Jenson

   7. Levy for 2024

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to leave levy the same as 2023, Andrew Jenson seconded

   8. Road Vacation

      1. Road hearing set for 4/6/2023 at 6:00pm; order signed by Clerk and Chair

      2. Cost to restore road would be $20,400

      3. Copy of order to Marcus Johnson

      4. Copy of Notice to Marcus Johnson

9. Board of Audit

   1. Six transactions were chosen by board members at the beginning of the meeting, three claims and three disbursements

   2. Treasurer Thomas Ryan pulled verification of each transaction for board members to view

   3. Board of Audit worksheet signed by board members

10. Public comments

    1. Brett Nelson asked if the board can review the corner on Circle Drive. There are steep ditches, cars have been in the ditch, and a Dakota Electric truck was nearly in the ditch

       1. It was noted that this can be reviewed on the road tour

11. Clerk’s contacts

    1.  Jessica Jacobson received an email regarding activity on Circle Drive this was discussed during the meeting

12. Meeting adjourned at 8:37pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded.

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
February 2, 2023
Recorded by Liz Pasch, Deputy Clerk
The February 2023 meeting was held in person at the Welch town Hall. Following the centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00 pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Deputy Clerk Liz Pasch were present as well.

1. Minutes from January board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   1. Minutes were signed by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson.

2. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

1. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Goodhue County Emergency Management & Dispatch

      1. Wayne Boetcher, Head of Dispatch for Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office presented on upcoming plans for new road realignments for Emergency 911 response. Only certain addresses and prefixed numbers will be affected. Mr. Boetcher distributed a handout explaining the addressing system in Goodhue County. (See handout)

   2. Goodhue County Commissioner Linda Flanders appeared.

      1. Following the discussion regarding a Mississippi River clean-up at Sturgeon Lake Rd and County Rd 18, there will be a river cleanup challenge extended to other cities along the Mississippi River after which the winner is declared to be the river! The event is planned for Earth Day, April 22, 2023.

      2. A constituent sent a letter to the county asking what happens when a property is forfeited for not paying taxes. Ms. Flanders stated that there are 27 steps the county goes through, and property owners have 6 years to pay back the taxes.

2. Hearings (as required) – there were none

3. Building permit requests – there were none

4. Current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills, Aaron Bauer seconded.

5. Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

6. Road Update – Darwin Fox

7. Items for discussion

   1. Free Conference Call account. Aaron Bauer made a motion to deactivate the account, Andrew Jenson seconded.

   2. Mike Creglow will submit new spreadsheet with updated estimates for town hall updates.

   3. Township website; Mike Creglow checked regarding payment and verified that debit cards are not accepted to the Square account.

   4. MATIT liability coverage – Thomas Ryan

      1. The township currently has lowest deductible but could raise the deductible to slightly lower premiums. Aaron Bauer made a motion to leave the deductible as is, Andrew Jenson seconded.

   5. Annual Meeting

      1. Aaron made a motion to set a second alternate date of March 28 for the annual meeting, seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   6. Election judge appointments:

      1. Aaron Bauer moved to appoint Mike Creglow, Ken Slingsby and Darwin Fox as election judges for the upcoming township election, seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   7. CD renewal – Tom Ryan; doing 1-year CD,

      1. Aaron Bauer made a motion and Andrew Jenson seconded to purchase a one-year CD.

   8. Road closure documents were presented to the board by deputy clerk for closing 230th Street East

      1. A special meeting on March 2nd at 6:00 pm prior to the March town board meeting was recommended. Aaron Bauer made a motion and Andrew Jenson seconded. Need to notify 10 closest neighbors in Welch Township.

      2. NOTE: This meeting was not scheduled after Clerk Jessica Jacobson reviewed procedure for calling a special meeting, and the procedures for extinguishing a road. To be reviewed at March meeting. Special meeting or road hearing will be scheduled at that time.

8. Public comments

   1. Limited to two minutes per person

9. Clerk’s contacts

   1.  Jessica Jacobson received a request from Beverly Head asking to be added to the March agenda.

10. Meeting adjourned at 8:28pm. Aaron Bauer made a motion, Andrew Jenson seconded.

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
January 5, 2023
 
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
 
The January 2023 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from the December 2022 board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson

   1. Minutes were signed by  Vice Chair Andrew Jenson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson

2. December Planning Commission meeting was cancelled, no minutes were forwarded

3. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance – there were none

5. Hearings (as required) – there were none

6. Building permits – there were none

7. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded

8. Planning commission update – Darwin Fox – December meeting was cancelled

9. Roads Update – Darwin Fox

   1. The snow and ice have been challenging

   2. There have been trees hanging in the roadways

10. Items for discussion

    1. Pricing for new town hall – Mike Creglow

       1. Mike has updated spreadsheet and will email to Planning Commission and Board

    2. Township Website – Mike Creglow

       1. Mike will send spreadsheet with comparisons to Clerk

       2. Weebly has been acquired by Square, and Square is now charging for our domain name

          1. Because of this, Clerk is now unable to access/update website

          2. To continue to use Square the price would be $13 per month, or $10 per month if paid per year

       3. Issue with paying for this domain, or for another platform is that the Township does not have a credit card for payment

          1. Treasurer has looked into this, paying the bill can be tricky with the timing of due dates and board meetings, there can also be audit issues down the road

          2. Paying with a personal card and getting reimbursed can be risky, person using their card is ultimately responsible for the bill

          3. Clerk asked if we could get a debit card attached to our checking account, then there are no bills to be paid

       4. Mike has been researching other platform and looking at different townships’ websites, Wanamingo Township has a simple, easy to use website

       5. Treasurer will research getting a debit card, and Mike will find out if any of the different platforms accept debit cards

    3. Township road maps

       1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received two road maps from Goodhue County Land Use Management

       2. Maps were reviewed by Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Aaron Bauer, along with Darwin Fox, and notes were made regarding road maintenance

       3. Clerk will return to Goodhue County Land Use Management, due 2/11/23

    4. Follow up on possible zoning issue with commercial business

       1. Letter was drafted by Chair Marcus Johnson to land owner Russell Head

       2. Letter was signed at meeting by Andrew Jenson and Aaron Bauer

       3. Clerk to have Marcus Johnson sign and mail letter

    5. Internet access for town hall building – Mike Creglow

       1. This has been delayed due to weather

    6. SSD trail pump

       1. Chair Marcus Johnson has called Advanced Septic/Ben, they will check on the pump after increase in electric bill noted by Treasurer Thomas Ryan

    7. MATIT liability coverage

       1. Premium is increasing

       2. Would Township like to change any coverage?

       3. Noted that further research is needed

11. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person) - none

12. Clerk Contacts - none

 
 
ACTION ITEMS:
Tom Ryan will research getting a debit card for the Township
Mike Creglow will find out if website platforms accept debit cards for payment
Jessica Jacobson will return reviewed road maps to Goodhue County Land Use Management
 
 
Aaron Bauer moved to adjourn meeting at 7:58pm with a second by Andrew Jenson.


Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
December 1, 2022
 
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
 
The December 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from the November 3, 2022 board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson, Marcus abstained from vote because of absence from 11/3/22 meeting.

   1. Minutes were signed by Chair Marcus Johnson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson

2. Minutes from the November Planning Commission meeting were emailed to township supervisors for review prior to meeting

3. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson

4. Miesville Fire Department – Tom LaTuff and Steve Meyers

   1. Increased calls in 2022, handouts given, 93 calls for were Welch

   2. Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC) donated $26,000

   3. 2022 will be Tom’s last year as chief, Steve Meyers will be taking over as chief in January 2023

5. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Linda Flanders

      1. Broadband project – funding from USDA went to the county and then to DEED

      2. Association of MN Counties – Linda will be presenting at one of the breakout sessions on the river clean up project. She is working with Becky Norton on this. They are planning another clean up day on Earth Day

      3. Brief message about shooting with Goodhue County Deputy. Both the deputy and the suspect are ok

6. Hearings (as required) – there were none

7. Building permits

   1. Ron and Cindy Fox, permit for house to be built spring 2023

   2. Value $375,000

   3. Went before planning commission in November, motion was made to move forward to the board. Site has been reviewed prior, when shed was built, set back are met and site is buildable

   4. Plans were presented, and board reviewed

   5. Marcus made motion to approve, Andrew seconded; motion passed unanimously

8. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded

9. Planning commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. There was one building permit request at November meeting

   2. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received a call from a Solar company regarding a residential roof mounted project. They are requesting paperwork from the township. Jessica will complete and return

   3. Business operation – it was brought to the Township’s attention that a business that operated at the old Country Pump (commercial) location in the past has relocated to a non-commercial property. The business owner does not live at this property

      1. Planning Commission has reviewed ordinances, this is not a home business and therefore does not fit the ordinance. Business owner might be renting this property and running the business.

      2. Planning commission recommends that the Board notify the owner of the property and the person operating the business to come before the Board and explain what is going on at this property

      3. Activity at this property appears to not align with Welch Township zoning ordinances. Dialog with parties involved will be helpful

      4. Clerk Jessica will contact Goodhue County Land Use Management regarding this for guidance around drafting letters, letters will be sent certified mail

      5. Board members will compile addresses for Jessica

10. Roads Update – Darwin Fox

    1. In winter mode, after recent snowfall of 7”

11. Items for discussion

    1. Extinguishment of township road

       1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson explained that this may need to be done at annual meeting, it was discussed with board members that there are two methods. Township would need to get voter permission at next annual meeting, or 8 voters would need to sign a petition

       2. Jessica will email checklist to Chair Marcus Johnson

       3. Township will research with method will be easier to execute

    2. CD update – Treasurer Tom Ryan

       1. 4 CD’s have been opened; 3 month, 6 month, 9 month, and 12 month

       2. Because the CD’s can only be issued in $1000 increments, there were some funds left over that were put into a money market account with Edward Jones

       3. Edward Jones needs verification of Township status, the tax ID was not sufficient. Tom will check with Ken Slingsby, former Township Clerk

       4. It was also suggested to use our DUNS number or to check the Secretary of State website

    3. Pricing for new town hall – Mike Creglow

       1. Nothing new to report

       2. Mike has updated spreadsheet and will email to Planning Commission and Board

    4. Township Website – Mike Creglow

       1. Current website is free, but capabilities are limited

       2. Could have something more user friendly, or could upgrade what we have

       3. Mike can get hosting prices

       4. Township can build new site, no coding involved

          1. Marcus recommended having just one admin person

    5. Polling place resolution was reviewed and signed by Board and Clerk

       1. Clerk Jessica will send to the County

12. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person) - none

13. Clerk Contacts

    1. Clerk Jessica received call from a solar company, addressed during Planning Commission update

 
 
ACTION ITEMS:
Clerk Jessica Jacobson will add “Road Updates” to agenda going forward.
Clerk Jessica Jacobson will contact Goodhue County Land Use Management regarding letters to be sent out, as discussed in 9, c, iv.
Board members will compile and sent contact information to Jessica regarding item 9, c.
Mike Creglow will email updated Town Hall building data to Planning Commission and Board.
Mike Creglow will get pricing for new Township website.
 
 
Aaron Bauer moved to adjourn meeting at 7:51pm with a second by Andrew Jenson.



Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
November 3rd, 2022
 
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
 
The November 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from the October 6, 2022 board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved with one minor correction by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson

   1. Minutes were signed by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson

2. Minutes from the October Planning Commission meeting were emailed to township supervisors for review prior to meeting

3. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson

   2. NOTE: check number 6567 was voided

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance - none

5. Hearings (as required) – there were none

6. Building permits – there were none

7. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded

8. Planning commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. County Planning Commission

      1. Conservation easement granted in Pine Island

      2. New rock quarry in Hay Creek Township

      3. County 2 bridge problem, failed inspection, closed for at least one year

   2. Welch Township Planning Commission

      1. No residents in attendance at October meeting

9. Items for discussion

   1. Extinguishment of township road

      1. This will be continued next meeting when all supervisors are present

   2. Federal Funding for broadband – Mike Creglow

      1. Nuvera is working on the engineering for Welch Trail, 130th, 265th, and up County 7. They are also working with the USDA on funding. This project might be surveyed yet this year

   3. Traffic on 230th and Orlando

      1. Traffic has been excessive and there have been complaints about dust. Aaron Bauer has spoken with DOT and has been informed that we cannot restrict traffic

      2. Aaron continues to receive complaints, and also states that it does appear that they have watered some areas. Aaron indicates that Commissioner Linda Flanders is doing some research regarding this issue

      3. Darwin Fox indicated that MNDot did pay for (or will be paying for) the extra chloride that was put down

   4. Township website

      1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson explained that what we are using (Weebly) is free, but limited. Mike Creglow added that something nicer might cost around $10 per month, but would be better organized and have links. Mike will help research. He noted that Wanamingo’s website is nice and user friendly. We could use that as a starting point. Mike will find pricing. Jessica will add to next month’s agenda

   5. CD options were presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan (Edward Jones)

      1. Representative from Edward Jones was unable to be present at the meeting. Rates are very good right now. CD’s are available for 3 month, 6 month, 9 month, or 1 year terms. We could spread them out so there is always one coming due. Tom suggested doing 4 CD’s at approximately $15,000 each, coming due every 3 months

      2. Mike Creglow suggested comparing Treasury Bills to CD’s. It was noted by Thomas Ryan that these have not been researched with the Edward Jones representative

      3. Motion made by Aaron Bauer to purchase $63,792 in CD’s, divided into 4 CD’s, one each quarter. This motion seconded by Andrew Jenson. The motion passed unanimously, and a check was made out to Edward Jones to purchase the CD’s

   6. Pricing for new town hall – Mike Creglow

      1. Mike continues to gather pricing for new town hall vs. upgrading the existing structure. Mike will update spreadsheet and forward to Jessica Jacobson. Jessica will forward this to the board for review

   7. Planning commission terms

      1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson stated that terms are ending for Mike Creglow, Ellen Hartman, and Elizabeth Pasch. All three have indicated that they wish to continue serving

      2. Andrew Jenson made a motion to continue terms for these three members, Aaron Bauer seconded. Motion passed unanimously

   8. Road Mileage – Jessica Jacobson

      1. Jessica Jacobson brought before the board a certification of road mileage to be completed and returned to Goodhue County. The board confirmed that there has been no change to road mileage. Jessica to complete certification and return to Goodhue County

   9. Temporary Road Closures – Aaron Bauer

      1. Aaron Bauer was contacted by Nick Ries III regarding closing 160th and 230th

      2. Aaron Bauer made a motion to place “road closed” signs on 160th for the winter, noting that the township would accommodate farmers if needed. Motion seconded by Andrew Jenson, and passed unanimously

      3. Aaron Bauer made a motion to place “road closed” signs on 230th now, in preparation for winter, on both ends of the road. Motion was seconded by Andrew Jenson, and passed unanimously

   10. Town hall internet access – Mike Creglow

       1. Account needs to be set up with Nuvera, the board confirmed for Mike that all board members can be listed as contacts

       2. Mike noted that this must be set up as a “business” account rather than residential. Pricing is $99.95 per month plus $10.95 per month for the modem. There are also some one time fees totaling $359.99, which can come from ARPA funds

       3. Aaron Bauer made a motion for Mike Creglow to handle the installation, seconded by Andrew Jenson, the motion passed unanimously

10. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person)

    1. Ken Slingsby noted that there is a property with two new buildings, and he couldn’t recall permits being requested. Supervisor Aaron Bauer clarified that the buildings in question are not new, but were re-tinned

11. Clerk Contacts

    1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson received an email from Nick Nowak regarding mowing and road right of way widths

 
 
ACTION ITEMS:
Treasurer Thomas Ryan will purchase CD’s according to motion in item 9, e, iii.
Clerk Jessica Jacobson will forward information regarding town hall pricing, once received.
Clerk Jessica Jacobson will complete and return road mileage certification to Goodhue County.
 
 
Aaron Bauer moved to adjourn meeting at 7:50pm with a second by Andrew Jenson.


Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
October 6, 2022
 
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
 
The October 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson at 6:59pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from the September 1, 2022 board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

   1. Minutes were signed by Vice Chair Andrew Jenson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson.

2. Minutes from the September Planning Commission meeting were emailed to township supervisors for review prior to meeting.

3. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Linda Flanders was in attendance with an update on different projects.

      1. Broadband project

         1. Local hookups put together

         2. She is in touch with Nuvera about Welch Trail to 130th

            1. Funds are at the USDA to be disbursed. A letter was received and forwarded to Nuvera, then will go back to the County, and back to the USDA

      2. River clean-up project

         1. 40-50 people were there for clean-up day

         2. There are new signs: “no parking between signs”

         3. County put up “pack in/pack out” signs

         4. Videos have gone out and more to come

         5. Maybe will do another clean up day, perhaps on Earth Day

5. Hearings (as required) – there were none

6. Building permits – there were none

7. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded

8. Planning commission update – Darwin Fox

   1. No permits requested at September meeting; the meeting was just general discussion

   2. Goodhue County cancelled planning commission meeting for September, no permits

   3. Board of adjustment meeting

      1. Wedding venue at the south end of the county request a variant, request was denied; there was no legal reason to grant the variant

   4. Roads are in good shape

      1. Circle Dr is being ditched

      2. There are 2 culverts with holes, these will need to be replaced soon, normal maintenance; this will hopefully be done before winter

      3. 130th should be open by the end of this week

      4. Roads are holding up well throughout construction

9. Items for discussion

   1. Extinguishment of township road

      1. Jessica Jacobson presented very brief update on research of this process

      2. This will be continued next meeting when all supervisors are present

      3. This process must be initiated at an Annual Meeting or Special Meeting

   2. CD options were presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan (Edward Jones)

      1. Rates are continuing to go up

      2. Edward Jones representative recommends short term CD’s

      3. The penalties are complicated, and essentially we do not want to withdraw early, can lose money

      4. These are a much better interest rate than bank CD rates

      5. Half of the township’s CDs have been moved into our general fund

      6. It was suggested during discussion that we start purchasing CDs with Edward Jones, buying one each month, so we will always have one coming due

      7. Official decision will be made at November board meeting

   3. Pricing for new town hall – Mike Creglow

      1. $58,000 Excavating, total $310,000 without the land

      2. $30,000 for land, if site is acceptable

      3. Mike will email spreadsheet to Jessica Jacobson

   4. Town hall Maintenance

      1. It was discussed that at this time the township is waiting to have more complete information regarding the pricing of a new town hall building before making any decisions regarding maintenance of the current building

      2. Decision will be made at annual meeting

      3. There are flood plain issues and full would need to be approved by the DNR

   5. Planning commission terms – tabled until next meeting

   6. 2023 Sealcoat & bituminous paving work

      1. Jessica Jacobson received an email offer from Goodhue County Public Works. It was decided to not take partj

   7. Aaron Bauer gave brief update on Prairie Island Blvd

      1. Last update was that our attorney would be talking with PIIC’s attorney in order to speed up the process

      2. PIIC has agreed to pay 50% of the rebuild of Prairie Island Blvd, but has not agreed to 50% of the ongoing maintenance

         1. Welch Township would like to split the cost of ongoing maintenance

   8. Township website

      1. Jessica Jacobson explained to board members that Weebly, the provider used to maintain the township website has been purchased by Square. As of 9/29/22, the Weebly account can no longer be accessed without setting up a Square account. Board members had no issue with Jessica setting up a free Square account to continue maintaining the township website

         1. Further research may be done to see if the township would like to use a different provider for this

   9. Town hall internet access

      1. Mike Creglow will need to gain access to the town hall for hook up. He will connect with a board member/clerk/treasurer

      2. Mike also confirmed with clerk/treasurer that invoice should be sent to the township address

10. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person)

    1. Jeremy Hanson was present with signs he has purchased stating “no parking between signs” to be placed at the end of his driveway, as there is an issue with residents blocking his driveway

    2. Darwin Fox will install

11. Town hall furnace lighting for meetings  

    1. Schedule was set as follows:

       1. November/December – Aaron Bauer

       2. January/February – Marcus Johnson

       3. March/April – Andrew Jenson

       4. Planning Commission Meetings – Darwin Fox

12. Clerk Contacts

    1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson had no contacts to report.

 
 
ACTION ITEMS:

1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson will do further research regarding website maintenance.

 
 
Andrew Jenson moved to adjourn meeting at 7:47pm with a second by Aaron Bauer.

***

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
September 1, 2022
 
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
 
The September 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:01pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from the August 4th, 2022 board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

   1. Minutes were signed by Chairman Marcus Johnson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson.

2. Minutes from the June Planning Commission meeting were emailed to township supervisors for review prior to meeting.

3. The treasurer’s report was presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Linda Flanders was in attendance with an update on different projects.

      1. Smaller broadband project

         1. They will start releasing 9/6/22. However, not everyone will roll out at the same time. This includes 23 households.

      2. Bigger broadband project

         1. Welch Trail and further up County 7 Blvd. Monies for this project have not yet been released. Funds are going to the USDA to be disbursed. Mike Creglow is working on this. He is working on a letter writing campaign.

      3. River clean-up project

         1. Clean-up day is moving along, and is set for 9/17/22 from 9am to noon

         2. Welch 4-H is helping out

         3. Republican Eagle will be there, doing a series of articles about cleaning up the river

         4. Goodhue County will supply bags and yellow vests

         5. City of Red Wing will collect the bags

         6. Five short videos will be made about this project is important, to be release later this fall

         7. The Mississippi is the 6th most endangered river

         8. There have been talks about siphoning from the Mississippi to the Colorado River. Feasibility has been requested, and has gone no further

5. Hearings (as required) – there were none

6. Building permits

   1. Brian Linnell came before the Welch Township Board requesting a building permit for a 16x32 prefabricated shed. He is at 145th Ave. The approx. value is $19,900.00.

      1. He went before the Welch Township Planning Commission

      2. Motion to approve the building permit was made by Aaron Bauer, and seconded by Andrew Jenson

      3. $25 fee was paid, and building permit issued

         1. Brian also noted that there is a tree down on 145th Ave, and that he will move it to the ditch

7. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded.

8. Items for discussion

   1. Final tax levy certification for taxes payable 2023 was presented by Jessica Jacobson, and discussed by supervisors.

      1. At the March 2022 Annual Meeting, the levy was set:

         1. $275,000 Road and Bridge

         2. $65,000 Fire

         3. $9,000 Revenue

      2. The Road and Bridge levy was raised by $100,000 per year for the next three years in order to help pay half of the estimated cost to rebuild Prairie Island Blvd. Efforts are being made to reach an agreement with the Prairie Island Indian Community regarding the cost of the project

      3. Supervisors discussed this increase, stating that at this time there has been no agreement made with PIIC

      4. Aaron Bauer made a motion to change the increase to Road and Bridge to $75,000, making the totals:

         1. $250,000 Road and Bridge

         2. $65,000 Fire

         3. $9,000 Revenue

      5. Andrew Jenson seconded

      6. Vote was unanimously in favor

      7. Jessica Jacobson will submit the final levy numbers to Goodhue County

   2. Sewer assessment for 2023

      1. Financial information regarding the SSD were prepared and emailed out by Thomas Ryan prior to the meeting

      2. Supervisors discussed that the maintenance schedule is to replace grinder pump 1 in 2023 and replace the 275-gallon tank in 2024

      3. Ending balance in the SSD account as of 8/30/22 is $44,658.35

      4. Aaron Bauer made a motion to keep the charges at $825 per residential hookup and $925 per business hookup. Andrew Jenson seconded

      5. Vote was unanimously in favor

      6. Jessica Jacobson had a resolution prepared, this was signed by supervisors and clerk.

      7. Jessica Jacobson with work with Goodhue County regarding the assessment

   3. Extinguishment of township road

      1. Jessica Jacobson gathered information regarding the extinguishment of a township road. It was discussed that there are several ways to do so, two of those being “formal vacation,” and “abandoning.” It was also discussed that it is likely best to use the formal vacation process.  Jessica Jacobson noted that with this process the township would need to consider the prohibition on landlocking property, and the need to determine damages.

      2. Jessica Jacobson will do more research on this topic regarding the actual steps of the process and present again at the next board meeting.

   4. CD options were presented by Treasurer Thomas Ryan

      1. Edward Jones has the best options/rates with a 6 month CD at 2.85%, and one year at 3.15%.

      2. Thomas Ryan will find out what the penalty is for early withdrawal, and what the rate is for a 5 year CD

      3. The township’s current CDs are set to auto-renew, and about half have been cashed out and put into the general fund. The township currently has approximately $60,000 in CDs.

      4. Supervisors agreed that they would like to know the penalties with Edward Jones before moving forward.

   5. Pricing for new town hall – Mike Creglow

      1. Mike stated that the electric quote has increased from $14,900 to $21,000.

      2. He asked for recommendations for an excavator. Aaron Bauer, Adam Bauer, and Darwin Fox were suggested.

      3. Mike will update his spreadsheet and email to Jessica Jacobson, and Liz Pasch.

   6. Town Hall mailbox has been installed and will be checked by Jessica Jacobson and/or Thomas Ryan.

   7. Dog Barking ordinance update

      1. Jessica Jacobson reported on her research on the process of adopting a new ordinance. She contacted MAT (MN Association of Townships) and was directed to several documents on their website. First step is to start with a clear grant of authority from the electors at the annual meeting. At this time the township would be unable to move forward with an ordinance until a vote of authorization has taken place at the next annual meeting.

      2. After authority has been granted, the township can move forward, if the board so chooses, with drafting the ordinance. It is recommended to have assistance from an attorney with this process.

      3. After drafting there are several more steps to the process that will be further investigated by Jessica Jacobson when appropriate

   8. Planning commission terms were brought up by Clerk Jessica Jacobson, just as a reminder to the board that these terms need to be monitored and re-appointed. Jessica will collaborate with Thomas Ryan to get a tracking system in place for this.

9. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person)

   1. Adam Bauer returned to continue discussion regarding dog barking ordinance. He states the Sheriff has told him there is no ordinance at the county level. The dog near him barks 200-300 times per day. He has approached the neighbor about a bark collar. He states that other townships with ordinances have the sheriff enforce. He states the sheriff has also spoken with the neighbor.

      1. Ken Slingsby asked if this would apply to farm animals as well.

         1. At this time, the township is looking into a dark barking ordinance only.

   2. Adam Bauer reported some roads that need work.

      1. 165th off of 19 could use ditch work

      2. 228th about a third of the way down needs gravel

      3. Marcus Johnson will have Darwin Fox look into this

10. Clerk Contacts

    1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson had no contacts to report.

 
 
ACTION ITEMS:

1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson will do further research regarding extinguishment of a township road.

2. Treasurer Thomas Ryan will gather more information from Edward Jones regarding CD’s.

 
Aaron Bauer moved to adjourn meeting at 8:15pm with a second by Andrew Jenson.
 
 
Guests:
Ken Slingsby
Mike Creglow
Matt Chowen
Linda Flanders
Amanda Johnson-White
Adam Bauer
 
***

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
August 4, 2022
Recorded by Elizabeth Pasch, Deputy Clerk
 
The August 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer and Treasurer Thomas Ryan were present.

1. Minutes from the July 7, 2022, board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

   1. Minutes were signed by Chairman Marcus Johnson.

2. Minutes from the July Planning Commission meeting were emailed to township supervisors for review.

3. Treasurer Thomas Ryan presented his report for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. 

   1. The report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Goodhue County Commissioner Linda Flanders appeared and reported.

      1. Broadband: The project on Welch Trail and 130th was approved and government funds are expected. The project will not begin until funds are received. Ms. Flanders stated her understanding is that the delay in funds is due to Federal funds are tied to the money going to the Ukraine.

      2. Vermillion River littering: Ms. Flanders has been in contact with all the stakeholders involved and wrote a report in a case for support, which compels officials involved to respond. She stated that one of the big challenges will be getting law enforcement to enforce the no parking signs that will be put up. Several videos will be made to increase awareness that will be circulated on social media for public awareness with a focus on cleaning up the Mississippi River.

   2. Darwin Fox reported on Goodhue County Planning Commission topics which included a solar project installation.

5. Hearings (as required) – there were none

6. Building permits

   1. Mitch Jackson – attended a previous Welch Township Planning Commission meeting regarding building a garage. Planning Commission recommended approval since there are no setback issues and a variance had been approved by Goodhue County. The permit was approved by motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer. 

   2. Janice Fier had previously contacted Clerk Jessica Jacobson and Deputy Clerk Liz Pasch, who directed her to the Welch Township website for permit procedures. She attended the previous Planning Commission meeting. The Planning Commission recommended approval based on no setback issues. The permit was approved by motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   3. Carl “Olie” Flynn attended the previous Planning Commission meeting for a pole shed on his property for agricultural purposes. The Planning Commission recommended approval and the permit was approved by motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

7. Pay current bills

   1. Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills and Aaron Bauer seconded.

8. Items for discussion

   1. Treasurer Thomas Ryan continued the discussion regarding CD options. Darwin Fox gave a background of how the CDs came to be for the township to use as an emergency fund. Other investment options include I-Bonds, which have a better interest rate.

      1. Janice Fier offered to research some options for Treasurer Thomas Ryan.

   2. Cost estimate for a new Town Hall building was presented by Mike Creglow using the architectural plan for the new Ravenna Hall:

      1. Building structure materials $85,578.77, labor $70,000, heating $31,400 (additional $6,450 for 2 zones; $2,600 for heat pump), well $23,037, septic and drainfield $10,455, electric $14,900, plumbing $14,000

      2. Current total $249,370.77 not including concrete, excavation, cost to acquire land

   3. Town Hall Cluster Mailbox

      1. After multiple discussions regarding unavailable or undesirable locations, Marcus Johnson made a motion to install a single mailbox for the town hall at the site of the current Welch Town Hall and was seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   4. Welch Township road work and conditions – Darwin Fox

      1. Periodic blading has been done. Ditches have been mowed to keep down noxious weeds. MNDOT had calcium chloride put on Orlando Avenue to minimize dust on Hwy. 61.

   5. Dog barking ordinance update – Clerk Jessica Jacobson previously emailed her research regarding ordinances in other locales to supervisors and treasurer including information from Minnesota Association of Townships. The topic will be deferred until the next meeting.

9. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person)

   1. Adam Bauer asked how many acres town is looking for a new town hall location and offered to donate his acreage.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:28pm.
Visitors:
Mitch Jackson
Linda Flanders
Janice Fier
Darwin and Cheryl Fox
Mike Creglow
Adam Bauer
Carl Flynn

***

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2022
 
Recorded by Jessica Jacobson, Clerk
 
The July 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner, Clerk Jessica Jacobson, and Deputy Clerk Elizabeth Pasch were present as well.

1. Minutes from the June 2, 2022, board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer

   1. Minutes were signed by Chairman, Marcus Johnson and Clerk, Jessica Jacobson

2. Minutes from special meeting with Prairie Island Indian Community on June 1, 2022 were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson

3. Minutes from the June Planning Commission meeting were emailed to township supervisors for review.

4. The treasurer’s report was presented by Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. Darwin Fox noted that there should be a 3rd reimbursement coming from Xcel Energy for road damage.

   2. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

5. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. A representative from the Sheriff’s office was in attendance. He noted that road crews are almost full staffed, and that this year has been mellow. He also stated to call with any concerns.

   2. Commissioner Linda Flanders was in attendance with an update on the littering concern by the Vermillion River. She will email her report to Clerk Jessica Jacobson.

      1. She has started a petition with 72 names.

      2. She has been doing lots of research on the issue and its impact.

      3. She is working to put together a case for support. This is still being refined, and will show ramifications of the litter.

      4. Representative Barb Haley is helping.

      5. The goal is to get meeting with regional director.

      6. Awareness campaign to start, using mass media.

      7. She noted that it is legal to be there and make a mess. It is illegal to leave the mess, but someone would have to witness that.

      8. Deputies can only cite for no parking. Red Wing Police and Prairie Island Police could cite as well.

      9. Pictures have been sent to the DNR.

      10. We need collaboration because there are so many agencies involved.

      11. More to come on this issue. Linda will send weekly updates, and will also attend next board meeting.

6. Hearings (as required) – there were none

7. Building permits

   1. Mike Johnson requesting building permit for 16’x50x addition for Wes and Dawn Thompson. He has been before the Welch Township Planning Commission.

      1.  for building permit approved by motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

      2. Mr. Johnson paid $190.00 and received building permit

   2. Breanna and Jake Kohn went before the planning commission to put in a gate/fence. Welch Township does not do permits for fences. They were advised to speak with surrounding neighbors and MNDOT

   3. Ollie Flynn inquired about a building permit and was advised to attend next planning commission meeting on July 28th, 2022.

   4. Rick Ries Jr. came before the board regarding a demolition permit for the Glen Wallin farmhouse. He will go before the Planning Commission with plans for the new house.

      1. Mr. Ries was given a building permit form marked *demolition*. There is no fee for this.

8. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills; Andrew Jenson seconded.

9. Items for discussion

   1. Treasurer Thomas Ryan was to discuss CD options with longer term and higher interest rates. Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner stated that this will be deferred until next month’s meeting.

   2. Mike Creglow stated that discussion on pricing for new town hall building will be deferred until next month’s meeting.

   3. Township mailbox discussion will also be deferred to next month’s meeting

   4. Darwin Fox provided an update on road conditions. Most of the rocking is done, working on mowing, chloride is done, ditches are being seeded, will be starting on 145th with ditch shaping, and roads have been bladed where needed.

   5. 2nd quarter PERA report has been completed.

   6. Clerk Jessica Jacobson handed out MAT membership cards to board members.

   7. Clerk Jessica Jacobson presented SSD insurance renewal to be reviewed. She was advised by supervisors to review this with Treasurer Thomas Ryan.

      1. This has been done.

   8. Darwin Fox gave update from Goodhue County Planning Commission. Board of Adjustments working on bluff impact setbacks. New staff there are doing a good job of researching. All variances were granted.

10. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person)

    1. Adam Bauer returned to continue discussion regarding dog barking ordinance. He states there is no dog barking ordinance at the county level. However, Welch Township can adopt their own ordinance. It was noted that Douglas County had their attorney draft their ordinance. Adam also brought examples of dog barking ordinances from other townships.

       1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson will research the protocol for adopting a new ordinance.

    2. John Anderson asked if Welch Township did adopt a dog barking ordinance, where would we draw the line, would other animals be included?

       1. This ordinance would be for dog barking only.

    3. Laurel Stinson introduced herself. She is running for House District 20A, and is currently on the Red Wing City Council. She also stated that the council is supportive of the litter issue. If she is elected, she would support our efforts to rectify the situation.

11. Clerk Contacts

    1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson had no contacts to report.

 
 
ACTION ITEMS:

1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson will research the protocol for adopting a new ordinance in the township.

 
Andy Jenson moved to adjourn meeting at 7:44pm with a second by Aaron Bauer.
 
 
Guests:
Mike Creglow
Matt Chowen
Mike Johnson
Laurel Stinson
Steve Sweeney
Adam Bauer
Max Bauer
Linda Flanders
Liz Pasch


Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
June 2, 2022
 
Recorded by Elizabeth Pasch, Deputy Clerk
 
The June 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than six feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Deputy Clerk Elizabeth Pasch were present as well.

1. Minutes from the May 5, 2022, board meeting were reviewed by board members and approved by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   1. Minutes were signed by Chairman, Marcus Johnson

2. Minutes from Local Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting held April 13, 2022 previously approved were signed by Chair Marcus Johnson.

3. The treasurer’s report was reviewed for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer.

4. Recognize Commissioner/Sheriff/Legislators in attendance

   1. Commissioner Linda Flanders provided an update regarding Nuvera fiber optic cable for broadband Internet service in Welch Township and the greater Goodhue County area and added that there are additional providers now coming forward to offer services.

   2. Miesville Fire Chief Tom Latuff exchanged fire extinguishers at the Town Hall. He also provided a breakdown for 2023 and 2024 agreement for fire department services to area townships including Welch. Aaron Bauer motioned to accept the budget agreement with a second by Andrew Jenson.

5. Planning Commission update by Darwin Fox.

   1. Goodhue County is currently reviewing outdoor storage options in certain business districts that are not currently allowed.

6. Building permits

   1. Les Anderson intends to replace a shed on his property at its existing location. Andrew Jenson motioned to approve the request, seconded by Marcus Johnson. Anderson paid the $25 fee, and a building permit was issued.

   2. Although no building permit is required, Karl Vollmers was advised by Goodhue County to advise Welch Township of his intent to place a 40-foot shipping container on his property to use for equipment storage. Aaron Bauer acknowledged that the township is aware of his request and approves; no permit is necessary.

   3. Breanna Kohn appeared with the stated interest in purchasing the location formerly known as The Country Pump to use as a business location. She will attend a future Planning Commission meeting with more specific questions regarding ordinances.

7. Hearings (as required)

8. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills; Andrew Jenson seconded.

9. Items for discussion

   1. Thomas Ryan discussed options for CDs and will investigate additional options for longer terms with higher interest rates and report at the next meeting.

   2. Mike Creglow was not prepared to present pricing options for a new town hall and the matter will be tabled until the next meeting.

   3. Township mailbox – Liz Pasch previously spoke with Ross Nelson about a central location in the hamlet and will discuss with him again before the next meeting regarding the location to include a “blue box.” Tom Ryan to speak to Angie Glad as a possible alternate location.

   4. Darwin Fox provided an update on road conditions and current work being done to ditches.

   5. The Wayne Peterson property is filling with silt due to previous removal of a berm by Wayne. Marcus Johnson contacted Goodhue County and suggest that they allow Welch Township to address the issue.

10. Public comments (limited to two minutes per person)

    1. John Anderson asked when the road repair in front of his house would be completed. He also questioned a new 30 mph. speed limit sign asking who, when and why it was installed. Darwin said the sign would be removed.

    2. Adam Bauer addressed the parking and congestion issue at the intersection of County Road 18 and Sturgeon Lake Road. According to Bauer, there is an overabundance of people parking in a no-parking area most of whom are fishing. Furthermore, the resulting litter makes the area look like a dump. He has also personally witnessed small unattended children crossing the bridge and road. He has approached the sheriff’s department, Goodhue County agencies and DNR with no result and is asking for the township’s help in rectifying this issue. Bauer also asked if there is a dog-barking ordinance in the township. A neighbor’s dog barks incessantly, and the sheriff’s deputy said there was nothing they could do.

 
ACTION ITEMS:

1. Darwin Fox will remove speed limit sign.

2. Marcus Johnson encouraged Bauer to call Samantha Pierret at Goodhue County Land use to inquire.

3. Marcus Johnson will call mayor on behalf of Adam Bauer.

4. Marcus will email MNDOT about 130th, 265th and 260th.

 
Aaron Bauer moved to adjourn meeting at 8:24pm with a second by Andrew Jenson.
 
 
 
Guests:
John Anderson
Les Anderson
Adam Bauer
Rita Childs
Mike Creglow
Linda Flanders
Josh Forrester
Darwin Fox
Ron Friesen
Breanna Kohn
Ken Slingsby
Lyle Stellin (sp)
Tom Latuff
Karl Vollmers

Welch Township  Special Meeting Minutes
June 1, 2022
Meeting minutes recorded by Liz Pasch, Deputy Clerk
 
This special working meeting was a continuation of the discussion to attain a shared cost agreement between Welch Township and Prairie Island Indian Community for repair and maintenance of two roads in Welch Township: 130th Avenue and Prairie Island Blvd. The meeting began at 7:03 p.m.
Attendees: Dan Lonnes and Cristina Mlejnek of Bolton & Menk; Welch Township chair Marcus Johnson and supervisors Aaron Bauer and Andrew Jenson
Guests: Ken Slingsby, Darwin Fox
The previous special meeting was held on December 14, 2021. At that time, the general intent of cost sharing was agreed upon by the parties and a draft of the agreement was to be forwarded to the Welch Township attorney to propose more specific wording that effectively communicates the intent.
An agreement had been reached regarding the future maintenance of 130th Avenue. According to Mr. Lonnes, however, the wording of the previous agreement regarding Prairie Island Blvd. had been revised by the township attorney to an extent beyond what he believed that the PIIC would willing to approve. A lengthy discussion ensued regarding key requirements upon which the parties had previously agreed. Mr. Lonnes further described a key sticking point for PIIC is that the agreement is for a one-time repair project on Prairie Island Blvd. and does not include a continuing maintenance arrangement in perpetuity. As was noted in previous discussions and reiterated by Lonnes, since the road is owned by Welch Township and not on tribal land, PIIC is not required to contribute anything. The $300,000 (approximately half of the cost of repair) they are offering toward the repair is a good faith gesture and should be recognized that it is a departure from how PIIC handles any other roadway listed in the tribal inventory.
The discussion concluded with the suggestion that the township legal counsel converse by phone with PIIC legal counsel to come to agreement on specific wording of a few points to finalize the documents and move forward on the roadway repair. Chair Johnson will be contacting the Township legal counsel.
Meeting adjourned at 8:25.



May 5th, 2022
Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes

The May 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 feet. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marcus Johnson at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Vice Chair Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Aaron Bauer, Treasurer Thomas Ryan, and Clerk Jessica Jacobson were present as well.

1. Minutes from the April 7th, 2022 board meeting were reviewed. They were not read aloud, as they had been sent to board members for review prior.

   1. The minutes were approved by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

   2. Minutes were signed by Chairman, Marcus Johnson

2. Minutes from Local Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting held April 13th, 2022 were reviewed. They were not read aloud, as they had been sent to board members for review prior.

   1. The Minutes were approved by a motion made by Andrew Jenson and seconded by Aaron Bauer

3. The treasurer’s report was reviewed for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.

   1. The treasurer’s report was accepted by a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson.

4. Building permits

   1. Ron Fox – Agricultural Building 50’ x 54’ – County 7 Blvd

      1. Ron went before the Welch Township Planning Commission in the fall of 2021. At that time, the Welch Township Planning Commission recommended approval of his building permit request

      2. This site does not yet have an address. It has been deemed a buildable site per Goodhue County

      3. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve the building permit request. The motion was seconded by Aaron Bauer

      4. A fee of $25 was paid to the Treasurer

5. Current bills

   1. Aaron Bauer made a motion to pay current bills, Andrew Jenson seconded

6. Clerk Jessica Jacobson has appointed Elizabeth Pasch as Deputy Clerk with the intention of the Deputy Clerk attending and taking minutes for the Welch Township Planning Commission meetings.

   1. Marcus Johnson stated that from his research, it is up to the township board to decide if they will pay the Deputy Clerk

   2. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay the Deputy Clerk, Andrew Jenson seconded

7. Status update on Town Hall mailbox options

   1. Aaron Bauer spoke to Cannon Falls mail carrier. She noted that the mailbox could be on the road at the town hall or could be in the village. She also noted that USPS would like to add a blue drop box in Welch. The town hall mailbox could be next to that. It was requested that this not be in front of the Cannon River Inn due to busy seasons.

   2. It was noted that Goodhue County has break-away posts for $50, but it was mentioned that a break-away post might have issue holding a secure mailbox.

   3. Cluster mailboxes were also mentioned for the Village of Welch. These could be posted next to a blue drop box, and an village residents could choose to get their mail at that location. This would be beneficial for mail carrier, not having to stop repeatedly on County 7 Blvd.

      1. There were suggestions of placing these boxes either by the apartments owned by Ross Nelson, or on Angie Glad’s property.

      2. Tom Ryan will speak with Angie Glad

      3. Elizabeth Pasch will speak with Ross Nelson

8. Clerk Jessica Jacobson brought copy of email received from MAT regarding an old hail damage claim. This was not read aloud, as it was sent to board members prior to the meeting for their review. It was agreed that the email was simply a notification that the claim was being closed out, due to no damage found by the adjuster. No action needed.

9. A status update was given on the Township ARPA reporting. Retired Clerk Ken Slingsby was present and confirmed that the reporting was completed by the 4/30/22 deadline.

   1. Ken stated that the contacts for Welch Township need to be updated for ARPA, and it was decided that Marcus Johnson and Jessica Jacobson will be the contacts with Marcus as administrator and Jessica as associate.

10. The Nuvera agreement was signed, and will be scanned and emailed to Nuvera

    1. This was completed by Mike Creglow, contract returned to Jessica Jacobson to be filed.

11. Goodhue County Planning Commission update – Darwin Fox

    1. Tabled conservation subdivision plat – approved

    2. Working on ordinance clean up

    3. Storage units – continued discussion

       1. They are discussing locations, all are currently in city, could possibly be in industrial areas, looking at towns as well

    4. There was no solar discussion

12. Dust control – Darwin Fox

    1. Is the board willing to share cost with Ross Nelson?

    2. Where and how much do we want to do?

    3. Township receives funds from the state and pays back citizens who paid privately

    4. Aaron Bauer will talk to people on 130th

    5. Darwin Fox will update Marcus, and will send a quote

    6. Marcus Johnson will contact MNDOT about chloride

    7. It was suggested that at this time we chloride everything that was done before

       1. Motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Andrew Jenson

13. Shortcut Detour (Roundabout construction at Hwy 61 and Hwy 316)

    1. Reach out to MNDOT about chloride and detour

       1. State has indicated that they will chloride 130th, 260th, and 265th in July

    2. Roads will be video’d before and after detour, we want this first video to be done when roads are at their best, noted that the chloride will make them look better

14. Road Conditions – Darwin Fox

    1. 260th has been rocked

    2. 145th has been cleaned up, trees

    3. Have been blading

    4. Get detour in good shape

    5. Pulling shoulders

    6. Working through the list from the road tour

    7. 230th and Orlando – reported settling/hole

       1. Will be rocking Orlando

       2. Will check this out

    8. Orlando Ave clean up

       1. Garbage on the road

       2. Cost share with Douglas Township

          1. Darwin Fox keeps track of this

15. Email from Goodhue County Public Works – Marcus Johnson

    1. 2023 replacing culvert on County 7 Blvd, there will be a detour

       1. Construction will take about a month

       2. Road will be treated with chloride as part of construction

       3. Road agreement to be signed

       4. Will video roads before and after to assess for damage/wear from detour (as mentioned above in detour discussion)

    2. Wayne Peterson

       1. Ethan Seaberg at Goodhue County Public Works has had contact from him

       2. It was noted that in 2005 Wayne hired Jonathan Hinch to remove a berm, it is now filling with silt

       3. The township could make it flow better, but it would not fix the problem

       4. Question was raised – is this a protected waterway?

       5. Motion made by Marcus Johnson to go back to Goodhue County and suggest that they allow Welch Township to fix this, working with Ethan. Then township will bill Goodhue County for Luhman’s work. Aaron Bauer seconded

       6. Marcus Johnson will communicate with Goodhue County

16. Update on Beseke property

    1. Chairman Marcus Johnson and Clerk Jessica Jacobson signed needed document

    2. Marcus then obtained signatures from the Besekes.

    3. Originals have been mailed to Einar at Strobel and Hanson, PA

17. Discussion on 130th and Prairie Island Blvd

    1. Marcus Johnson stated that we are close to an agreement with the Prairie Island Indian Community, with only one area of concern – the terminology

    2. Township is requesting future maintenance to be 50/50 between the township and Prairie Island Indian Community

       1. PIIC would like the township to pay 100% of the future maintenance

    3. Another work session will be requested

    4. Marcus Johnson will communicate with Jessica Jacobson when this has been arranged so that meeting can be posted.

18. Annual Meeting Minutes corrections

    1. Deputy Clerk Elizabeth Pasch reported errors in the meeting minutes from the March 2022 Annual Meeting

       1. The minutes state that Elizabeth Pasch volunteered to act as moderator, she was not present at the meeting

       2. She also noted that Juan Pasch is listed as a guest, he was not present at the meeting

    2. These corrections were given to Clerk Jessica Jacobson to address

19. CD’s – Thomas Ryan

    1. Suggestion made by Treasurer Thomas Ryan to look at longer term CD’s with higher interest rates

    2. Question asked if a money market account would have a higher interest rate

       1. Thomas stated that money market accounts at First State Bank to do not have a higher interest rate

    3. Thomas will gather details on longer term CD’s and present at next board meeting

20. Thank you from Historical Society

    1. Clerk Jessica Jacobson noted that a “thank you” letter was received from the Goodhue County Historical Society for the donation made by Welch Township

21. New Town Hall building update

    1. Mike Creglow noted that he has pricing information for a new Town Hall building, he will present this at the next board meeting

22. Motion to adjourn at 8:10pm made by Andrew Jenson, seconded by Aaron Bauer

 


April 13th, 2022
Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
Local Board of Appeal & Equalization Meeting

The LBAE meeting was held in-person at the Goodhue County Government Center. The meeting was called to order by Supervisor Aaron Bauer at 4:00pm. Supervisor Andrew Jensen was also present. Clerk Jessica Jacobson was present as well as staff from the Goodhue County Assessor’s Office.

1. LaVonne Augustine from the Goodhue County Assessor’s Office presented information

   1. October 2020-September 2021 sales are what set property values

      1. She explained that sales drive up property values

   2. Assessor’s Office goal is to be at 90-105% of what the property would sell for

2. Changes were proposed to several properties, each needing a motion to be made by the Welch Township Board, these changes are for the 2023 property tax year

   1. Frederick Huebner, 15 acres, parcel# 46-003-0400

      1. Classification change

      2. Assessor’s Office did a split class

         1. Change to just residential

      3. Aaron Bauer made a motion to accept changes, and Andrew Jenson seconded

   2. Juan Pasch, parcel# 46-134-0040

      1. Basement was ¾

      2. Patio/deck was reduced

      3. Added second bathroom and wet bar

      4. Change from $634,000 to $624,000

      5. Aaron Bauer made a motion to accept changes, and Andrew Jensen seconded

   3. Nelson Family Farms, LLC, see attachment for parcel information

      1. Adjusted breakdown of woods vs. waste

         1. Better technology allowed for this

      2. Change from $2.24M to 2.16M for all 18 parcels

      3. 6 of 18 parcels were changed in value

      4. Aerial photos of property were viewed by board members present

      5. Aaron Bauer made a motion to accept changes, and Andrew Jensen seconded

3. There was a brief discussion on AIRBNB

   1. The Goodhue County Assessor’s Office would like to be notified of any properties that are full time AIRBNB with no long term housing included.

4. There were no citizens present at the meeting

5. Aaron Bauer closed the meeting at 4:45pm

April 7th, 2022

Welch Township Board Meeting Minutes
Reorganization Meeting April 7th, 2022

The April 2022 meeting was held in-person at the Welch Town Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00pm and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jensen and Marcus Johnson were also present. Treasurer Thomas Ryan, newly elected Clerk Jessica Jacobson, and Retiring Clerk Ken Slingsby were present as well.
1. Minutes from the March 3rd, 2022 Board meeting were reviewed. They were not read aloud, as they had been sent to Board members for review prior.
a. A minor correction was made to the discussion Marcus Johnson lead regarding the Beseke property. “Welch Township will convey a strip of property per survey done by Johnson Scofield for roadway utility and maintenance easement.”
b. It was noted that on page three of the minutes check number 6456 is labeled as “Goodhue County” when it should be “Goodhue County Association of Townships.”
c. The minutes were approved with these corrections by a motion made by Andrew Jensen and seconded by Marcus Johnson.

2. The treasurer’s report was reviewed for the township and SSD of the Village of Welch. There were no additions or corrections.
a. The treasurer’s reports were accepted by a motion made by Marcus Johnson and seconded by Andrew Jensen.

3. A representative from the Sheriff’s office, Rob Troolin, was acknowledged. He clarified that the sirens at 6:45pm were part of weather awareness and were a drill.
a. Rob also noted that there has been an issue with drivers leaving the wedding venue on Highway 61 turning the wrong way, then needing to make a U-turn.

4. Darwin Fox gave updates from the Goodhue County Planning Commission including mention of solar requests, upcoming outdoor storage in Welch. He noted that it will be a busy summer, and that in person meetings will help.

5. Commissioner Linda Flanders spoke about several topics
a. There were 4 proposals regarding re-districting made to the County Board, all met regulations. Option 2 was least disruptive. Districts 2 and 4 will swap a township
b. There have been questions about election security. There are talking points on the county website. No ballots allowed in the drop box at the back entrance of the government center any longer. There will be more to come on this topic
c. Nuvera/broadband internet service. Unsure of when we will get the balance of funding. Nuvera plans to come further up County 7 Blvd when the ground thaws. Angie Craig’s office is working on more broadband projects for 2023, this will include White Rock, Goodhue Urban, and Welch. She clarified that this would be a large project for Welch. Nuvera is putting in a proposal for these 2023 projects

6. Advanced Septic Solutions – Tom Wirtzfeld gave updates
a. Operating Permit Renewal was emailed from Advance Septic Solutions prior to the meeting
b. January annual report must be done on a new form to Goodhue County, this is due in the next few months
c. Tom is retiring and has sold the company to Ben Rynda, this should be a seamless transition. It is the same company with the same bonds and insurance. Our contract is with the company, and that is not changing.

7. Building Permits – Bleu Dog Café, Britton Good
a. Bleu Dog Café has requested a building permit to build an 8 foot deck to cover the concrete area in the front of their building in the Village of Welch. The stairs will come out approximately 1.5 feet further than existing. This will create a safe space for outside seating
b. This request was recommended for approval by the planning commission, and by Goodhue County, pending approval from Welch Township Board
c. It was discussed and decided that this will not interfere with plowing in the winter
d. Andrew Jensen made a motion to approve and Marcus Johnson seconded.
e. Fee was paid in the amount of $25, and receipt was issued
f. The declared value is unknown

8. Current Bills a. Andrew Jensen made a motion to pay current bills, Marcus Johnson seconded

9. Marcus Johnson was nominated for Chairperson for the 2022 year. Andrew Jensen will be vice chair and Aaron Bauer will become Past Chair. Clerk Jessica Jacobson was sworn in March 24, 2022 and was introduced to those present.

10. Beseke Property
a. Marcus Johnson has received agreements that would give deed to Mr. Beseke and an easement to Welch Township. This agreement needs to be signed by the chair and the clerk. It must also be notarized. The agreement will be revised with new clerk Jessica Jacobson’s name. Jessica and Marcus will sign and have notarized.
b. Aaron Bauer made a motion to proceed. Andrew Jensen seconded.

11. Annual Meeting – March 8th, 2022
a. The annual meeting minutes were distributed for review
b. Important topic was the levy for an additional $100,000 per year for the next three years for the Prairie Island Blvd project. At this point, the township is unsure of the stance of the Prairie Island Tribal Council on this. Welch Township has been working with them on splitting the cost of the project which was originally estimated at $600,000
c. Decision does not need to be made on this until August. It was tabled for now

12. Greg Wollan spoke regarding tree debris left on his property after project completed by Welch Township. He states he had agreed to having a “couple” trees cut, but he ended up with all the trees and stumps left on his property, approximately 60.
a. Darwin with Luhman’s Construction stated that once dry, these could be loaded and removed from Wollan’s property.
b. Marcus Johnson asked what was in the original agreement. Answer – to fix the culvert
c. Darwin stated this would be a 1-2 day job to clean up d. It was noted that the board would take a look at this on the road tour on 4/8/22 at 2:00pm

13. Township Mail. Thomas Ryan suggested that township mail be delivered to the Town Hall rather than his home. Jessica Jacobson noted that she can walk over to pick up mail most days, if not every day.
a. Aaron Bauer will talk to the mail carrier to find out where they would prefer a mailbox be at the Town Hall
b. It was noted that this will be resolved by next meeting

14. Open Road Bids – Maintenance
a. Ad was in the newspaper requesting bids for road maintenance
b. Only one bid was received
c. Aaron Bauer opened the bid d. Bid was from Luhman’s Construction
e. Brief discussion was held regarding the 8.5% increase in price
f. Contract is for April 2022 – April 2024
g. Marcus Johnson made motion to accept, Andrew Jenson seconded.

15. It was noted that the bank of use, newspaper of use, and posting location at the town hall will all remain the same. Postings may also be made on the website, but cannot be official posting place.

16. Clerk Jessica Jacobson noted phone calls received from two of the owners of Blvd 7 LLC, the 6 unit apartment complex regarding their property tax statement for 2022. She received a call from Marci Sadler and one business partner Ken. They are concerned about the $9,900 assessment to their taxes for sewer fees. Marci states she was not aware of this, and is looking to make installment payments to the township. Jessica explained to them that there was a letter sent to one of the business partners in 2021 explaining that the fee was due to Welch Township, and if not paid, 2021 and 2022 sewer fees would be assessed to their 2022 taxes. Marci states they did not receive that letter. A copy of this was emailed to her by Jessica. Marci also requested a reduction in fees because they have done major renovations to the property and 3 of the units were unoccupied.
a. This was discussed by the board and stated that no installment plan would be made with the township and that there is no way to monitor usage. All users are treated the same and charged based on number of hookups
b. Jessica stated she would follow up with Marci

17. Road Conditions, Darwin Fox noted that the road conditions are terrible
a. There are many potholes on 145th, they hope to blade this weekend
b. He noted that the frost is not all the way out yet
c. Liz Pasch noted extra wear and tear on her driveway due to work Xcel Energy is doing. She has spoken to Seth at Xcel. Darwin Fox explained that he is not able to bill Xcel for work to repair. He will need to bill to Welch Township and then Welch Township will bill Xcel. Aaron Bauer stated that he will call Seth at Xcel, and will then call Liz with information he receives.

18. ARPA funds (Coronavirus) and report was discussed by Mike Creglow
a. Welch Township is tier 5 for reporting
b. Due date is 4/30/22 to report what the township has decided to spend the funds on. After that there is annual reporting. All funds are to be earmarked by 12/31/24 and spent by 12/31/26
c. Total funds to be received is $82,398. Welch Township has already received $39,893 and $1306. There are $41,199 left to be received
d. It was noted that this can be put in the General Fund
e. It was discussed that some of these funds could be used to improve the Town Hall building, and the septic has its own category. Funds could be used for a large septic project in the future
f. It was noted that this reporting should be done by newly elected Clerk Jessica Jacobson. Mike Creglow stated that he would forward to her the instructions on how to report
g. $5,000 of the ARPA money has been earmarked for the Village of Welch Broadband internet

19. Local Board of Appeal and Equalization (LBAE) Meeting is scheduled for 4/13/22 at 4:00pm at the Government Center

20. Polling Place Resolution discussed. Voting for federal elections will be at the fire station, and at Town Hall for local.
a. Aaron Bauer made motion, and Andrew Jensen seconded.

21. Clerk Jessica Jacobson had new signature card for First State Bank signed by Supervisors, Treasurer, and Clerk
a. She noted that she will return the card to First State Bank

22. Motion to adjourn was made by Andrew Jensen and seconded by Marcus Johnson
a. Meeting was adjourned at 8:15pm

 

March 3, 2022 

A posting on the door of the Town Hall stating the Board of Audit would meet ½ hour before the March meeting. The following persons participated in the audit:
Aaron Bauer, Chairperson
Andrew Jenson, Supervisor
Marcus Johnson, Supervisor
Thomas Ryan, Treasurer
In that meeting three deposits and three checks were reviewed by random selection in the Treasurer's books. These were compared with supporting evidence. Reviewed were:
1/7/2021             Luhman’s Construction                 check #6275        $17,039.72
4/1/2021             Advanced Septic Solutions            check #2067       $1,920.82
10/7/2021           Hummingbird Environmental        check #6384       $6,250.00
2/16/2021           Douglas Township                         receipt #02162021     $6,213.06
7/23/2021           First State Bank of Red Wing        receipt #975241         $107.46
10/7/2021           Jeremy Hanson                             receipt #975250         $66.00
No discrepancies were noted. The Board of Audit was adjourned.


The March meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were also present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were present.

The minutes for the February 2022 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. No changes or additions were identified. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the minutes. Andrew Jenson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report for the Township and the Treasurer's report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name Location Declared Twp.
Description Value Fee 
Tom & Dana Groh               16' X 20' addition to existing post frame building
Tom & Dana Groh              New post frame building approx 80' X 160'


OTHER BUSINESS
Tom & Dana Groh appeared to request two building permits on property they own at 14995 218 St Way. One requested permit is to be an extension to an existing building. The second request is for a new building not connected to the first. The building addition is to be located approximately 50 ft from a property line in a wooded area. The second building will be located farther in on their land, but still within a wooded area. The Groh's own 80 acres of mostly tillable land. The requested buildings will be used for machinery and equipment storage. Other than the distance to the property line noted above, no setback issues were identified. Since the building addition is farther than the property line than the building it is to be attached, the distance requirement was waived. Mr. Bauer made a motion to approve; Mr. Johnson seconded.


Darwin Fox, a member of the County Planning Commission was asked to describe recent issues. The County PC is considering other zoning changes following the change to zoning along the border of the City of Red Wing and Welch Township. There is a request for a large feedlot to be located in a southern township.


Linda Flanders, County Commissioner described some contacts with Nuvera, who is waiting for the Spring thaw to continue installation of fiber optic cables for broadband. Due to cost increases, Nuvera expects each home connected to the fiber would cost about $7,600. She also feels the County is planning to relax the masking requirements and begin allowing in-person meetings in the coming days.


Marcus Johnson led a discussion of the recent conversations with Kieth Beseke concerning a 100' easement on the West side of the Beseke property. Currently the easement is not being used by the Township and could be deeded back to the Beseke family. Discussions with the road contractor indicated the Township should retain a smaller easement in case the Township would need to utilize the land if the culvert on the South side of the property would need attention. Marcus Johnson made a motion to deed part of the easement back to Beseke, retaining the southern most portion of the easement for possible future maintenance of a culvert at the bottom of a ravine on the southern edge of the Beseke land. Andrew seconded. Aaron Bauer made a motion stating that Mr. Johnson should contact the Township Attorney to write up the title changes. Andrew Jenson seconded. It is to be noted that Mr. Johnson abstained from the votes on the motion.


Aaron Bauer noted the Prairie Island Tribal members have not yet approved the changes made to the Memorandum of Agreement concerning Prairie Island Blvd road resurfacing. It is assumed the project would cost about $600,000 with the PIIC and Township splitting the cost. Mr Bauer made a recommendation the Township levi an additional $100,000 annually for three years to approximately pay for the project. This is to be added to the Annual Meeting agenda.


Thomas Ryan asked if he could direct the bank to cash out our CDs, putting the proceeds in the checking account as the current CDs are paying less than one percent interest vs the checking account which pays somewhat more. Aaron Bauer made a motion directing Mr. Ryan to proceed with converting CDs to the checking account as they mature. Marcus Johnson seconded.


Ken Slingsby stated he had sent an advertisement to the Republican Eagle asking for bids for road maintenance. Responses are due back by the end of March.


There was a brief discussion of changing the address of the Township. Currently it is the clerk's address, Tom Ryan wanted to discuss changing the address to his address or the address of the town hall. No decision was reached. Mr. Ryan also discussed changing the checks to computer printable as opposed to the current hand written checks. 


It was noted that Luhman Construction had indicated they would like to apply dust control chemical to Town roads. Consideration on the matter was tabled for the present.


The annual road tour was tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of April 8, if it can be scheduled the same day for Douglas Township.



The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 P.M.


GUESTS
Barb Nelson               Elizabeth Pasch                Linda Flanders               Tom & Dana Groh
Mike Creglow            Darwin Fox


February 3, 2022



The February meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:05 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were also present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were present.


The minutes for the January 2022 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. No changes or additions were identified. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the minutes. Andrew Jenson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report for the Township and the Treasurer's report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.


BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
none

OTHER BUSINESS
Darwin Fox was asked if there was any news from the County Commissioners' meeting. He responded saying both the County Planning Commission and the Commissioners had approved the zoning changes along the western border of Red Wing and abuts the eastern border of Welch Township. Thus the parcels ofsections 13, 24, and 25 of Twp 114 Range 16 and sections 1,12, 13, 24 and the Township portions of section 25, Township 113, Range 16 will be zoned A-2 (General Agriculture). 


There was a discussion of uses of the COVID Relief funding. No decision was reached.


Marcus Johnson spoke of a conversation with Linda Flanders who spoke of grants available for single family homes for building or remodelling. She also spoke of a meeting with Nuvera concerning further installation of broadband in the area.


Tom Wertzfeld, Advanced Septic was recognized. There have been a few error messages received on his equipment. They appear to be false alarms. The system has also indicated short (5 minute) power outages. He spoke of County findings which indicate an increase in measured CBOD (Carbonaceous Biochemical Oxygen Demand – roughly the potential oxygen demand associated with the biodegradation of organics in the wastewater.) in the wastewaters of septic systems. He feels this may be due to the increased usage of hand sanitizers and antibacterial soaps caused by the anti-COVID-19 procedures in response to the epidemic. The difference has not been great, but is enough to cause some concern. He also presented an invoice for services preformed in the final month of 2021.


Aaron Bauer had spoken to several area contractors to get an idea of cost for refurbishing the Town Hall. Raise the building, move it aside, place two additional courses of block, fill in the basement windows, and replace the building - $19,100. New windows & replace two doors - $47.803. Tear off and replace siding with smooth prefinished $55,749. An estimate of cost to insulate was not available. Marcus Johnson had estimated the present floor height and compared that to the 500 year flood from FEMA estimates and found the bottom of the floor joists are six inches above the flood stage. Thus raising the building would be a good idea. Darwin Fox estimated it would cost $48,000-50,000 to raise the parking lot and fill the basement with sand. Bringing the grade of the grounds around the building would make a ramp more feasable. A new HVAC system would also be desireable, but no cost was available.


Election judges that were appointed for the annual election include Barb Nelson, Mike Creglow, and Bob Luhman. Darwin Fox said he would get a porta potty arranged.


A Board of Audit consisting of the Supervisors, Treasurer and Clerk will meet prior to the March meeting. Aaron Bauer made the motion, Marcus Johnson seconded. The Clerk is to post a notice of this.


Darwin Fox described the town roads as in good winter condition. There has been little snowfall and no ice. His crews have been trimming trees along 265 Ave and 165 Ave. He asked the Board members to look at Welch Trail near the top of the hill leaving the Village of Welch. Should the trees be trimmed or cut off? Most are cedar and encroach on the roadway.


There was a brief discussion of a 100' X 400' strip of land along the Beseke property on 130 Ave. Marcus Johnson said he would attempt to call the Besekes to explore some options for the land.



GUESTS
Barb Nelson                  Darwin Fox                Mike Creglow                Tom Wirtzfeld              Christina Begelow




January 6, 2022

The January meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:05 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were also present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were present.


The minutes for the December 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. No changes or additions were identified. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the minutes. Andrew Jenson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report for the Township and the Treasurer's report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.


BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name Location Declared Twp.
Description Value Fee 
Doug & Barb Nelson               Replace ramp to deck


OTHER BUSINESS
The Nelsons found the original ramp to the deck was not in good shape and needed to be replaced. They were given a no cost permit, indicating the Township is aware of the work.


Darwin Fox was recognized. He described the County Planning Commission business as light. The only item on the agenda was the change in County designation on some sections along the City of Red Wing' western border along the eastern sections of Welch Township. The County will conduct a hearing Monday, January 10 concerning the item. He also gave an update of the Township Planning Commission. Ron Fox had appeared stating he is not quite ready to apply for a building permit for a storage building on land near the Village of Welch along Co. Rd. 7. Darwin Fox stated he had learned that Elisa and Olaf Mark had bought a house in River Falls and decided to not persue building a home in Welch Township for the time being. Ken Slingsby reported he had been contacted by Rick Ries who had bought the Glen Wallin building site and plans to demolish the existing home and build new on the same footprint. 


The Planning Commission has not developed a revised document detailing how to get a building permit for the web site.


Aaron Bauer reported he had spoken with Tom Wirtzfeld of Advanced Septic concerning possible installation of either a septic tank/drain field or a holding tank for the present Town Hall. Mr. Wirtzfeld sent an estimate for both options. Mr. Bauer then spoke to Doug Morem, County Building Inspector, who stated it is not required to install changes per ADA guidelines and that a building sprinkler system would not be required if the building occupancy of either the existing or a new building was less than 300. Mr Bauer plans to get estimates on new siding and possibly spray foam insulation. He expects to compare the cost of upgrades to the existing town hall to building a new facility.


When asked Darwin Fox reported the town roads are in good shape. His crew has applied salt/sand or rock to roads as needed. He is considering applying additional rock to a spot on 130 Ave that seems to sink in cold weather, but heals itself after the spring thaw.



Ken Slingsby reported he had gotten an email from a person at the MN State Archives which included an inventory of the Clerk's Records removed from the Town Hall. Copies of those records can be found athttp://www2.mnhs.org/library/findaids/gr02136.xml .


Mr. Slingsby also reported that filing for either the Supervisor or the Clerk position in the Township closes January 11. He also mentioned the Association of Townships is providing training for spending of ARPA moneys which will be an virtual event on January 12. See the web site for details.


The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 P.M.


GUESTS
Mike Creglow               Darwin Fox               Barb Nelson               Doug Nelson               Liz Pasch



December 2, 2021

The December meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:05 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were also present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were present.


The minutes for the November 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Tom Ryan pointed out the minutes stated an incorrect check amount for him. This will be corrected in the official copy of the minutes. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the minutes as corrected. Andrew Jenson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report for the Township and the Treasurer's report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
none

OTHER BUSINESS
Darwin Fox was asked about recent County Planning Commission meetings. He responded the Planning Commission meeting was relatively quiet. The Commission had received a question wanting to know if a feedlot could be sited less than 1000 ft from an existing residence. The County Board is finalizing the annual budget. Mr. Fox had met with Benjamin Hoyt, the County Enviromental Health chair regarding the possibility of drilling a well and adding a sewer to the present town hall. According to current regulations, there should be adaquate room to drill a well and install either a holding tank or septic tank and drainfield on the current site. The well would need to be 150 ft from the community drain field. The town hall drainfield would need to be 100 ft from the well.


At the Township Planning Commission meeting, Paul Carlson had not appeared to discuss plans for an ag building on his property. It is felt he may be waiting until closer to spring to consider building. There was a brief discussion of the County Conservation Plat which might allow building permits in sections that are currently considered full. So far, none have been approved.


Mike Creglow reported he had spoken with Nuvera. They are currently plowing fiber cable along Co Rd 7 north of Vasa. If the weather stays warm, they expect to be near Welch soon and could connect a few buildings in Welch early next spring. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay Nuvera $50/month to add a connection in the Town Hall. Andrew Jenson seconded the motion.


When asked about road conditions, Darwin Fox reported that some of the heavily travelled roads had been bladed again. Ditch mowing had been completed to the edg of the right-of-way in many places. Dakota Electric crews have been trimming trees under the power lines. 


Ken Slingsby reported he had gotten an email from the County Taxation asking about a small sliver of land along 130 Ave that had been deeded to the Township several years ago when the road was turned over to the Township. Later, he found from a plat book dated 1954 the road had been previously known as County Rd 21 and extended from US-61 into the Village of Welch. There was a bend in the road to the east for a short distance. The sliver of land was to be used to straighten the road when the Township took control of the road. The sliver of land is currently not on taxed. The County asks if that land should be deeded to the current nearby land owner or if the Township has another use for the land. No action was taken by the Town Board at this time. There was a companion strip of land along the West side of 130 Ave was turned back to the owner when that side of the road was to be sold. The land on the East side of the road was not reverted to the (then) owner of the land.


Ken Slingsby reported that a person from the State Archives had visited the Town Hall and took all the Clerk's records plus the hand written records found in the library in the front of the Hall, seven banker's boxes in total. She promised a detailed reciept would be sent in the near future. She also looked at a sample of the Treasurer's materials saying after a six year period cancelled checks can be destroyed. According to the Retention form, most Treasurer documents can be destroyed, but some records need to be kept pernamently. When documents are to be destroyed, the State Archives needs us to complete a form which would be filed with the archives.


There was a question from the Inver Grove clerk asking for information concerning wedding venues. Aparently, they had gotten a request to convert a barn to that usage and wanted to get ideas on how to proceed. Ken Slingsby had fielded the request.


Ken Slingsby stated that filing for office would be open December 28 – January 11.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 P.M.
​



November 4, 2021

     The November meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were also present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were present.

     The minutes for the October 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Aaron Bauer noted the minutes included indication that an offer had been made for continuing servicing of the Welch Sewer System, but no price was included. The stated price for the upgrade was also incorrect.. Aaron Bauer moved to accept the minutes as corrected and Marcus Johnson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report for the Township and the Treasurer's report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name                                              Location                                     Description  
Audia Hanson                               Eggleston Park- Sect. 1             Replace mobile home that was destroyed by fire.
Brandon Otto                                Sect. 16                                        Erect bldg for ag purposes
OTHER BUSINESS
      Audia Hanson wishes to move a replacement mobile home in Morrie Finucan's Eggleston Park to replace a mobile that was destroyed by fire approximately one year ago. The supervisors felt that since this was a one for one replacement, no permit was needed. A permit form was issued with a notation stating the Board of Supervisors was familiar with the request and no township building permit would be issued. Marcus Johnson made a motion to issue a permit form iindicating the Township is aware of the replacement. Andrew Jenson seconded.

      Brandon Otto requested a permit to finish erecting a building for animals. No setback issues were determined. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request. Andrew Jenson made a motion to permit the building. Marcus Johnson seconded.

      Darwin Fox described some details of the most recent County Planning Commission meeting. They had discussed a proposed solar farm near Pine Island. The project changed ownership and thus has changed scope. He stated the County needs a letter from the Board of Supervisors approving the County's changes of zoning in sections bordering between the Eastern side of the Township and County. This would better align the designations of the County and the Township designation A2 and simplify permitting. The County presently designates the border sections as A3, somewhat restricting farmers from expansion. The clerk was diredted to draft and send a letter in support of the changes.

      Marcus Johnson and Mike Creglow volunteered to investigate costs of upgrades to the Town Hall including siding, window replacements, and insulation. Darwin Fox volunteered to estimate cost to fill in parking lot and basement to bring the area to the typical flood levels. He will also discuss with County Officials the possibility of adding a well and a septic holding tank for the building. In each case a comparrison with building new at a different site should be made.

      Aaron Bauer read part of an email from Commissioner Linda Flanders who said the County had made available funds that with the Welch Township money should allow Nuvera to place fiber cable into the Village of Welch. He estimated the broadband hookups with individual homes would probably occur next spring.

      Thomas Ryan and Ken Slingsby are to investigate using some of the ARA money to reimburse the $5,000 for broadband expansion that was recently given to Nuvera to provide internet services to the Village of Welch. It was noted the County has obtained grants of up to $1.6M for a similar County wide project.

      Thomas Ryan discovered the Township has approximately $120,000 between the checking account and CDs that is nol covered by FDIC insurance. In addition, the CDs are currently paying less than the checking account. Previoiusly, the bank had obtained assurances from other banks that would cover this amount. That coverage is no longer offered. It has been proposed that CDs held by the Township and some of the checkbook funds be converted to a Money Market account. This would need to be crafted in such a way that FDIC would cover the entire amount.

      Darwin Fox stated most gravel roads had been bladed in preparation for winter freeze up. Ditch mowing should be completed by November 8, weather permitting. The mowing to the edge of the ROW has improved the looks of the area and should help with minimizing the errects of blowing snow. More tree trimming will continue during the winter months again weather permitting. A few replacement street signs have been erected.

      Scott Espie asked if some help would be available to remove some trees that were dumped on his neighbor's land following a partial rebuild of a portion of 145 Ave following a rain storm about a year ago. The wood was to be used for building heat, but the terrain and size of some of the trees makes the removal difficult. 

      Ken Slingsby discussed the requirements for preservation of the Clerk's minutes and related materials. The file cabinets in the Town Hall are full with little or no space for the oldest record books. He urged adoption of a resolution to follow MAT & State guidelines for record retention. This is a first step in scanning the records and removal from the site. Andrew Jenson made a motion to sign Resolution 2021-9. Marcus Johnson secxonded. Ken is to send a letter to the State Archives stating our wishes in the matter.

      Ken Slingsby stated he had sent a document detailing how to obtain a building permit. Since no one present had seen it he offered to resend the document. 

      Scott Espie stated he wishes to sell a small parcel of land to a neighbor as the land is on the opposite side of the road from his property. He was advised to contact the County Building and Zoning office. 

      Ken Slingsby stated he wishes to retire from the clerk position effective with the Annual Meeeting in 2022. He stated he would be available to help the next clerk get started.

      Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills. Marcus Johnson seconded.

      The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.



October 7, 2021

     The October meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were also present.

     The minutes for the September 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Marcus Johnson noted the minutes stated he had motioned to adjorn the meeting, but he was not present. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the minutes as corrected and Aaron Bauer seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report for the Township and the Treasurer's report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name                                       Location                                      Description  
Jeremy Hanson                     Sect. 15N                                       Storage building 42' X 80'

OTHER BUSINESS
     No setback issues were found. Mr. Hanson stated the County had questioned the location due to flood plain concerns, but that was resolved. Aaron Bauer made a motion to accept the request. Andrew Jenson seconded.

     Brandon Otto appeared to request a building permit for a building in progress. He was told to appear at a Planning Commission meeting then if accepted, he could get a building permit at a following Town Board meeting.

     Darwin Fox reported on the latest County Planning Commission meeting. They discussed a possible large solar farm to be located in the Pine Island area, although there have been no permit requests to date. The County Public Works completed several road projects in the previous months.  

     Tom Wirtzfeld was recognized and spoke of the upgrade and pump replacement on the Village of Welch Sewer System. His crew had pumped the tanks, changed the layout of the two new lift pumps, and installed an updated control system. He presented invoices for the project, the total which exceeded his earlier estimate $52,509.55 vs. $43,000. He explained the wiring for the old control panel was imbeded in concrete and could not be pulled out, requiring some drilling through the concrete and placement of conduit. The replacement pumps location was changed to aleviate the need to enter the confined space for future maintenance. This required the re-route of the piping for the pumps, which had been anticipated. The system was put back in service and appears to be working fine. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve the invoice and thanked Mr. Wirtzfeld for the work completed. Marcus Johnson seconded the motion. Aaron Bauer had toured the new system and felt the work had been completed in good order.

     A resolution #2021-6, was completed and passed which will keep the annual levi for the users of the Welch Community Sewer System the same as in previous years, $825.00 per year for residential users and $925 for businesses connected to the system. Aaron Bauer made a motion to sign the resolution saying the account should carry a balance large enough to be able to perform maintenance and upgrades as needed. Andrew Jenson seconded.

     There was a discussion concerning pay for service. Elizabeth Pasch had compared several townships in the area and concluded some pay changes should be made. After some discussion, the following changes were agreed: The Planning Commission members should be paid $18 for requested work outside of meetings and $50 for meetings. Town Board members pay would remain the same at $50 per meeting. In addition, the Clerk and Treasurer should receive $18 per hour for requested work outside of meetings. Election judges pay would remain the same at $15/hour. Continuing education sessions would pay either ½ the meeting fee for half day sessions or full meeting fee for full day sessions. In addition Town Board liason, currently Andrew Jenson, would be the only required Planning Commission member at Town Board meetings, although Darwin Fox said he would probably attend because of his role as Planning Commission member and principal contractor. Andrew Jenson made a motion to approve the above changes. Aaron Bauer seconded the motion.

     The agenda had an item of repairs to the roof of the Town Hall as there was some leakage noted early last Spring. The item was tabled.

     Darwin Fox said that after some discussions in the Planning Commission, the commissioners agreed the meeting date for that body should change to the fourth Thursday rather than the second Monday. This would reduce the time between the Commission meeting and the Town Board meeting to better serve the persons wishing building permits. The Clerk asked how the requirement could be met to notify residents in the local area of the permit and notifications in the paper. The answer was that if the Commission notices a hearing is needed the permit requestor would have to delay a month for the notifications to be served. This would not affect a large number of requests. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the change, effective with the January 2022 meeting. Marcus Johnson seconded. The change will be effective with the first meeting in January. 

     Ken Slingsby presented a resolution, #2021-7, establishing the polling place for Township elections at the Town Hall, and State and Federal elections polling place at the Red Wing Fire Station #2 in Burnside for the year 2022. The polling place designation is an annual requirement. Andrew Jenson made a motion to sign the resolution. Marcus Johnson seconded. 

     Ken presented a verbal request for continuing Welch Sewer Service. Mr. Wirtzfeld suggested a three year contract based on prior years services. After discussion, Andrew Jenson made a motion to continue the annual fee amount at $1710 for services and $420 for mileage. Aaron Bauer seconded. Clerk Note – Amounts and wording change made after minutes were accepted.

      Mike Creglow noted the Township has three years to spend the American Relief Plan Act (ARPA) moneys stating he would investigate possible places the money could be used per federal guidelines.  

      Andrew Jenson and Darwin Fox met with Bolton-Meck to discuss how to best upgrade Prairie Island Bouvard. It was agreed the majority of the road would be milled and overlayed with blacktop material. A portion between The buffalo pasture and Curt Zibble's driveway would require complete removal of the existing blacktop and replacement, due to the condition of that portion of the road. This roadway would be 50/50 cost shared between the PIIC and Township. The proposal will be reviewed by the tribal council in the next few days.

      Marcus Johnson had exchanged emails with MN-DOT representatives concerning the use of Township roads as detours when a round-a-bout is built in 2022 at the intersection of US-61 and MN-316. 

      The route would be Orlando Avenue, 260th St. 265th St. and a portion of Welch Trail. The representative stated MN-DOT would place dust control chemicals on those road ways, leaving the grading to the Township. MN-DOT would create a video of the roads to show the current status and compare that to the road status after the project is complete. They would endevor to return the roads to the as found state.

     Aaron Bauer stated he had received a phone call from someone who wanted additional maintenance of a roadway, but did not identify which road.

     Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills. Marcus Johnson seconded.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M.



September 2, 2021

     The September meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Andrew Jenson was present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were also present.

     The minutes for the August 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the minutes and Aaron Bauer seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report and the report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Aaron Bauer seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name                                         Location                                    Description
Peter Swentic                          16100 240 Ave, Hastings           45 X 80 Storage Building

OTHER BUSINESS
     Mr. Swentic had asked the Planning Commission to meet before the Town Board meeting. He was charged an extra $300.00 for that. The Planning Commission had no issues with setbacks and recommended accepting the request. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the request. Aaron Bauer seconded.

     Tom Latuff, Fire Chief, Miesville was recognized. He said last spring, they had been informed their SCBA were in need of replacement, costing $115,000. Since then, the cost had risen to $134,422. They applied for a FEMA Grant and have been awarded $114,380. They will use money from previous year's fundraising to cover the difference. This will leave the money in the truck fund intact.

     Aaron Bauer said he had attempted to contact three companies regarding the mold removal in the basement of the Town Hall. Only one had responded and met with Aaron to assess the problem. Hummingbird Environmental of Red Wing proposed to do the work for $6,250. Due to the lack of interest from other companies, Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the bid. Aaron Bauer seconded.

     Ken Slingsby mentioned the Town Board could change the levy for property taxes payable in 2022 from the amounts set in the Annual meeting if needed. Andrew Jenson made a motion to leave the levy as previously set. Aaron Bauer seconded.

     Hanna Otto asked if she needed a village or township permit to position a food truck in Welch to serve snacks to the users of the canoe and tubing business during the summer months. She was told there would be no permit needed as long as she can set up on private land, not in the road right-of-ways. 

     Aaron Bauer described the working session with Bolton-Meck the evening prior to this meeting. The grant moneys that were hoped for earlier did not materialize. The PIIC feels they cannot fund both the work on PI Blvd and 130 Ave. They proposed a cost sharing on the milling and overlay of PI Blvd. The PIIC would pay for the blacktopping of the Northern one-half mile of 130 Ave. After some discussion, the Supervisors proposed the Township would continue snow plowing, salt and sanding in the winter and mowing in the summer on 130 Ave with PIIC paying for the maintenance of the blacktop. There would be a cost share on the maintenance of PI Blvd. Mr. Bauer proposed placing load limit signs on PI Blvd limiting the weight trucks can carry on the road. He felt if the Holst gravel pit was to resume usage, they would then need to use the Co. Road 18 access to the pit. It is assumed the 130 Ave blacktop would be built for 10-ton year around. Bolton-Meck stated they would take this offer to the Tribal Council and draft a written agreement. Mr. Bauer, on second thought felt a clause to the agreement should stipulate that if the blacktop on either road is not performed, the Township should revert the road to gravel. Both roads would remain Township property. 

     When asked, Tom Ryan replied he had gotten a call from the firm auditing the Treasurer's books saying the audit was complete and he could pick up the books and papers. There was no outcome discussed at this time.

     Jeremy Hanson asked if 'No Parking' signs would be erected soon on 190th St. He feels hunting season will start soon and the signs should be in place.

     Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills. Aaron Bauer seconded.

     Andrew Jenson made a motion to adjourn.  Aaron Bauer seconded.



SPECIAL WORKING MEETING WITH BOLTON-MECK
re: PAVING A PORTION OF 130 AVE & REPAVING PI BLVD
September 1, 2021

ATTENDING:
Daniel Lonness, Bolton-Meck          Cristina Mlejnek, Bolton-Meck          Aaron Bauer, Chairperson Welch Township
Andrew Jenson, Supervisor Welch Township                                              Ken Slingsby, Clerk Welch Township
Darwin Fox, Luhman Construction

DISCUSSION:
     It was noted the meeting was advertised in the Republican Eagle newspaper.

     Lonness stated that grant moneys haven't come for road improvements projects as hoped. He stated the Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC) felt they could fund blacktopping the North end of 130 Avenue to the Southern end of the tribal land, but would not be able to also fund repaving of Prairie Island Boulevard.

     Bauer and Fox spoke briefly of earlier agreements (approximately 2006) between the PIIC and the Township to use some of the BIA Road Improvemnt money to provide for maintenance costs on PI Blvd. Later when the Township asked to use some of the fund, we were told the money has not available. It is felt PI Blvd should not see heavy truck traffic as the County Road is available for that use. 

     Fox described the history of PI Blvd as being a gravel road through the 1960s to somewhere in the 1970s when it was blacktopped about the same time as the North end County Road 18 was realigned and another portion replaced the earlier South entrance to Prairie Island. The blacktop was placed on the existing gravel as part of an effort to transfer ownership to Welch Township following the opening of the North end of the County Road. The road has not been overlayed since then. 

     Bauer stated that if a portion of 130 Ave is paved, it should be built to 10 ton road specifications such that farm equipment, garbage trucks, and other heavy vehicles would not damage the roadway. 

     Lonness offered a 50/50 split between PIIC and the Township for road maintenance. Bauer stated a 50/50 split for maintenance on 130 Ave would not be acceptable since the Township no longer gets any tax money from the proposed PIIC development, but costs to the Township would continue, for instance our fire protection/first responder provider charges which are based on the total township population. He offered the Township would continue snow plowing, salt and sand in the winter times and ditch mowing in the summer. The Township wants to continue at least oversight of maintenance activities on the roadway. He offered that a 50/50 split on PI Blvd would be more acceptable as a majority of traffic on that road appears to be PIIC members.

     Lonness agreed to develop a written agreement for future discussion.

     Bauer noted work on 130 Ave might be easy to accomplish in 2022 as MN-DOT plans to install a round-about and close the North end of 130 Ave access to US-61/MN-316 starting in July.

     The meeting was closed about 7:00 P.M.


August 5, 2021

     The August meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were present, and Treasurer Thomas Ryan and Clerk Ken Slingsby were also present.

     The minutes for the July 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the minutes and Marcus Johnson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report and the report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the reports as written, and Andrew Jenson seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS

Nick Ries, III                Sect. 8             On-Ground Grain storage
Donald Lawrence      Sect. 8              Addition to a storage building

OTHER BUSINESS
     The two above additions were permitted with no setback issues. Donald Lawrence had requested a special Planning Commission meeting, which was held immedately prior to the Town Board meeting for which he was charged the fee of $120.00.

     Richard Anderson appeared to say he had decided to not erect a new room on his home due to the high prices he had been quoted for materials. He had gotten approval in a regular Planning Commission meeting.
     Thomas Ryan, no relation to the Treasurer, also appeared to discuss a room addition to a home he had recently purchased. He was told to appear at a Planning Commission meeting to discuss the project.

     A Sheriff deputy was present. When recognized, he spoke of two recent auto thefts. Both were discovered when the owners completed a tubing trip on the Cannon River. One of the cars was recovered. There are also some cataylic converter thefts occurring.
     Cristina Mlejnek of Bolton-Meck was recognized. She presented an agreement which had been penned by the Township Attorney which would hold the Township harmless should there be a problem with boring under 130 Ave to connect the water tower on the West side of the road to the potential users on the East side of the road. The agreement had been signed by the Tribal Chairperson, Shelly Buck. Chairperson Aaron Bauer also signed the agreement. One copy will remain with the Township, the other will be retained by the PIIC.
     Elizabeth Pasch introduced Adam White of Red Wing Construction who introduced David Medin, an architect from Faribault. The two visitors described items needing repair in the Town Hall to make it more usable. Mr. Medin described and compared the Town Hall to the Northfield Fire Hall. The basement of the Fire Hall was found to be below the 100 year flood. His firm had recommended moving outlets up on the walls, putting the refrigerator on an elevated platform and making other changes to help survive a flooding situation. He also talked of filling the basement of the Town Hall with sand, recommending if that was accomplished, a cement cover should be placed over it to keep the moisture from coming out of the sand. Other efforts should include mold remediation, repairing or replacing the shingles and insulation placed above the ceiling. Mr. Medin felt that a ramp could be constructed if we felt it was needed. He seemed to think raising the parking lot to the level of the building floor could cause the need for creating a wetland nearby.  There were no estimates of the cost of the work discussed.
     Darwin Fox said the post master in Welch told him the Post Office plan now is to erect a modular office in Cannon Falls to serve as the Welch office. It would be located near the existing Cannon Falls office and be available in September.
     Ken Slingsby reported talking to a Dakota County highway engineer who agreed that with the partial closure of MN-316 to install round-abouts and Dakota Co.-91 closed for rebuilding, this is causing additional traffic on 145 St. He agreed to apply additional dust control chemicals to the road.
     There was a question on status of a financial audit. Thomas Ryan reported he had left several months of records to an accounting firm, but had not heard if the audit was complete.
     Aaron Bauer said he had communicated with a MN-DOT representative, Bryan Paulson, in Rochester who said the round-about planned for US-61/MN-316/130 Ave would be constructed early summer 2022. Construction would take about two months during which time, access from/to 130 Ave would be closed. Orlando Ave/260 St will be the detour. 
     Elizabeth Pasch led a discussion of pay for Township employees. She felt persons on the Board, Planning Commission, and others volunteer for the positions then spend more time than they expected. The time could have been used for other endevors. Through mutual agreement, it was concluded more investigation is needed to compare how other townships pay for work accomplished both in and out of meetings. 

     Marcus Johnson said he had gotten a call from Raymond Gergen who said parts of 165 Ave Way had some soft spots, needing some rock.
     Darwin Fox reported that Township roads seemed to be in good condition. Some stretches of roads needed some spot grading. He felt they would be ready to replace the bridge on the South end of Orlando Avenue the week of August 16. He expects the project will take 2-3 days depending upon weather.
     There was general agreement to hire Pestop to sparay the town hall for insects.

GUESTS
Barbara Nelson                Nick Ries, III               Mike Creglow               Cristina Mlejnek               Rick Anderson
Charlie Melcher, PIIC     David Medin, Architect – Faribault                Adam White, Red Wing Construction
Liz Pasch                          Darwin Fox                 Tom Ryan (Hwy-61 & 316)
Marcus Johnson made a motion to adjourn. Andrew Jenson seconded. Adjourned at 8:05 P.M.


July 1, 2021
     The July meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. Following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, masks were not mandated, but encouraged. Chairs were separated by less than 6 ft. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were present, and Clerk Ken Slingsby and Deputy Treasurer Kevin Gardiner were also present.
     The minutes for the June 2021 meeting were not read as they been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the minutes and Marcus Johnson seconded. Kevin Gardiner read the Treasurer’s Report and the report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the reports as written, and Andrew Jenson seconded.
BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
none
OTHER BUSINESS
     Chairman Bauer read portions of an email he had received from Commissioner Linda Flanders who said the County was working with Nuvera to install broadband in Vasa Township. Nuvera is also working on a proposal for the limited installation in Welch. Through the efforts of State Represenative Angie Craig, it is expected the project will be expanded into Welch Township, probably in 2022-2023.
     Darwin Fox discussed the second dwelling request made by the Webergs. The second dwelling was permitted and erected prior to the County Ordinance dealing with the subject. There is no mention of it in the Township Ordinances which were drafted after the second dwelling was erected. The Township would not require a permit to remodell the building as long as no structural or foot print changes are made. The County has changed the terminology to Auxillary Dwelling Unit (ADU) recognizing second homes that preceded their ordinances. The County is interested in our meeting minutes concerning the issue. The Planning Commission recommends the Township recognize the County's ADU designation but no action need be taken at the township level. Ken Slingsby is to send a copy of the July 2021 meeting minutes to the County Zoning Dept signifing the Township has no outstanding issues with the second dwelling unit on the Allen Weberg property.
     Mr. Fox described the County led change to A3 designations along the border of Welch Township and the County/City of Red Wing. The change would be to A2 designation. Since the Township does not recognize the A3 designation in our Ordinances, there is no change needed at the township level. Mr. Fox believes there are no active farmers in the township that would be affected by the County's change of designation.
     Elizabeth Pasch spoke of getting the Town Hall inspected. The engineer she originally wanted to hire for the job wishes to remain retired. Red Wing Construction was identified as able to perform the task. MS Pasch and her husband met with Adam White to examine the building on June 16. His preliminnary impression is the roof seems sound except for shingles needing replacement and the basement needing some mold remediation. He felt the ceiling should be insulated. The firm will prepare a written evaluation and estimate the costs of needed repairs.
     Cristina Mlejnek of Bolton-Meck was recognized. The State grant for the Local Road Improvement Program had run out of funds before getting to the requests for 130 Ave paving and P.I. Blvd rebuilding. She felt that additional moneys would become available for these projects in late July. She introduced Charles Melcher (sp?) who is the Prairie Island Indian Community tribal engineer. He briefly spoke of upgrades to the two stretches of roadway. He feels moneys collected from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Road Inventory System could be used to partially pave the two roads.
     Aaron Bauer had contacted Tom Wirtzfeld to determine the status of the Welch Sewer System upgrades. Mr. Wirtzfeld said some of the materials had been received. The remainder should be arriving in July. 
     Ken Slingsby stated he had made application to the American Relief Program. They intend to review the application and will respond in a future date. He had completed an application for the Township for telephone service for the sewer system upgrade.
     Elizabeth Pasch had surveyed a few nearby townships and created a spreadsheet showing payments made to their employees to compare with Welch. She felt the $45 per Planning Commission meeting was not adaquate considering the time she had been spending on, for instance, the question of replace or repair the town hall. Aaron Bauer moved to table the discussion as the Supervisors had not studied the issue prior to the meeting.
     Andrew Jenson made a motion to pay current bills. Marcus Johnson seconded.
GUESTS
Barb Nelson                  Darwin Fox                  Allen & Michelle Weberg                 Cristina Mlejnek
Charlie Melchen, PI Tribal Engr                      Mike Creglow                                     Liz Pasch
Kevin Gardiner
     Marcus Johnson made a motion to adjourn. Andrew Jenson seconded. Adjourned at 8:05 P.M.


May 6, 2021
     The May meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. As in previous meetings since the culmination of the COVID-19 pandemic and Governor Walz’s orders, chairs were positioned at least six feet apart, and masks and hand sanitizer provided. The meeting was called to order by Chair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Andrew Jenson and Marcus Johnson were present, and Clerk Ken Slingsby and Treasurer Thomas Ryan were also present.
     The minutes for the April 2021 meeting were not read having been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the minutes as written and Andrew Jenson seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report and the report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Andrew Jenson moved to accept the reports as written, and Marcus Johnson seconded.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name                                    Location                  Description 
Ross Nelson                         Village of Welch       Shelter to replace temporary shelter now in use
Duane Bjorklund                Sect. 11                      Erect ground mounted solar system
Thomas Ryan                       Sect. 29                      Erect additional solar system on a building
Lucas Langenfeld               Sect. 21                       Erect shelter over front door of home

OTHER BUSINESS
     Chairperson Aaron Bauer recessed the meeting to conduct a hearing for a Conditional Use Permit requested by Ross Nelson, who wishes to erect a shelter on his property over a cement pad located somewhat South of the Nelson Apartments in Welch. As part of the agreement when the village was made a hamlet, all building requests must be made as a CUP. Mr. Nelson described the shelter as a structure with no sides, but with a more permanent roof to be erected in the area previously covered by a tarp over a pipe frame structure. The shelter would be approximately 20 X 30 ft in size. The Planning Commission had reviewed the request and found no reason to not approve the request. There were no comments from members of the public in attendance. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the request as stated. Marcus Johnson seconded the motion. The hearing was closed and the regular meeting resumed.
     Kyle Swarbrick, representing Winona Renewable Energy presented a request for a building permit to erect a ground mounted solar system on the Duane Bjorklund property. The proposed output of the system is estimated at 28 Kw, which is less than the Utility Scale limit. Marcus Johnson made a motion to accept the request. Andrew Jenson seconded the motion.
     Thomas Ryan presented a request to enlarge the solar system on the roof top of a building on his property. The proposed total output of the combined system would be 39.9 Kw and is less than the Utility Scale system. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the request. Marcus Johnson seconded the motion.
     Lucas Langenfeld presented sketches showing a shelter erected over the front door area of his home. There were no setback issues identified. No other issues were discovered. Marcus Johnson made a motion to accept the request. Andrew Jenson seconded the motion.
     It was expected that Brian Childs would present a request for a new home to replace one damaged by a fire. No one present could present the request.
     Tom Wirtzfeld presented a contract for a three year period to monitor and respond to requests for service on the Welch Sewer System. This is an expansion of a contract that was presented in the April meeting. The estimated cost for the service is $1,710 plus $420 for mileage for each year. There would be no cost increase compared to the period of 2018 to present. He stated the cost is partly based on the fact that his company also services septic systems at the Prairie Island Indian Community and the Welch Village Ski area and trips can be combined where ever possible. Mr. Wirtzfeld presented approximate costs for two new pumps and a new control panel. Marcus Johnson asked if Mr. Wirtzfeld could provide a tour of the present system. This was agreed with a date to be determined. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the proposed contract and pay the invoice presented for the year 2020. Marcus Johnson seconded the motion.
     Chairman Aaron Bauer led a discussion of the Road Tour conducted April 9. A few areas were noted as needing additional rock. Most notable were Orlando Avenue from the Charles Bodin residence to the South end of the roadway near the Clancy residence. Another long stretch of road needing rock is Welch Trail from the Village of Welch to the junction with 130 Avenue. While on the tour, the Welch Supervisors met with the Douglas Supervisors on Bridge L0554 which is located near the Clancy residence. The bridge is narrow by today's standards. The west most girder under the bridge is rusted out in several places, making the guard rail on that side wobbly. Darwin Fox had gotten estimates from Hancock Concrete to provide a cement culvert to replace the bridge and compared that to a recent installation in another township were corrugated metal tube was used in a bridge replacement. The metal tube installed cost less than half the cost of concrete materials. The two townships agreed to replace the bridge with metal tubes, to be installed before the bridge is needed for canoe and tubing busses begin using the road. It was later found there would be a 6-8 week delay in obtaining the metal tubes. The two townships agreed to split the cost of replacement.
     The Supervisors then opened the only bid for procurement and application of dust control chemicals in the Township. The bid from Luhman Construction quotes $0.94 per gallon to be spread at the rate of 0.3 gallons per square foot. It is expected the chemical could be spread around the end of May to first part of June. Ross Nelson had agreed to pay for half the cost of applying continuous dust control on the six miles of road often used by the canoe and tubing busses. Andrew Jenson made a motion to accept the bid from Luhman Construction for applying dust control chemicals 400 ft in front of residents' homes plus the shared expense for the six miles of continuous application of the chemicals. Marcus Johnson seconded the motion.
     Dan Fox of Luhman Construction presented a sheet comparing the cost of applying the chemicals continuously verses only in front of the 14 homes along the Tubing Bus route and grading the road between the homes about twice a month. The sheet shows a savings of $2,903 using the continuous application of the chemicals. The decision on this was postponed until the next meeting.6-3-2021 CORRECTION: Andrew moved to apply continuous dust control chemical along the Tubing Bus route as described. Marcus Johnson seconded.
     Luhman Construction has applied new rock to the Welch Trail from approximately 13823 Welch Trail to approximately 13013 Welch Trail. Rock was applied to other portions of Welch Trail, but the indicated portion consists of several hills that have been prone to washing following rain events. The Goodhue County practice, dust control chemicals are applied continuously, to stabilize the rock during the rain events as well as in high traffic areas. Using the figures in the comparison sheet, it appears the dust chemicals would cost about $1,985 per mile. The actual cost would be somewhat less considering the Township now pays for 400 ft in front of each resident's home. This amounts to about 3200 additional feet at about $0.55 per foot or about $1,750 for the chemicals. Andrew Jenson made a motion to apply the chemicals to the roadway as described. Marcus Johnson seconded.
     Mike Creglow spoke of a garage located on the site of the Carlson residence on the East side of Circle Drive. He stated there had been a fire in the garage in March of this year, leaving the side of the building blackened with some windows broken out. It appears the garage had been in use as some days a garage door is open, then other days the door is closed. The building is showing other signs of deterioration. He asked if the building could be demolished. It is not known if the present owners are aware of the situation.
     Liz Pasch spoke of a portion of the recent Planning Commission meeting. The Commission has decided to table work on the Conservation Sub Division Ordinance as the County is planning to rewrite portions of the ordinance. 
     Mike Creglow spoke of some considerations for a new town hall. He was asked if a cost comparison had been made between repairing the existing town hall and upgrading the present building compared to building new. No cost comparisons have been made. Since there has been no detail of what features, or size of the building would be needed in a new town hall, more work is needed to answer the question.


Thomas Ryan presented costs for two computers to be used by the Treasurer and Clerk plus the software promoted by the State Auditor's Office, City and Town Accounting Software, CTAS. Others in the meeting wondered if backup software and antivirus software were also needed. No action was taken on the proposal.


Linda Flanders sent word that she could not attend the meeting. Her email spoke of a Crisis Center being constructed in Rochester and serving several counties, including Goodhue. Shealso spoke of Nuvera which had been granted some money from the State to upgrade the broadband infrastructure in Vasa Township. They also applied for funding through Angie Craig's office for funding to support expansion of the Vasa side to provide service to the Village of Welch and a portion of Welch Trail. The fate of the second grant application is unknown at this time.
     The former treasurer, Joan Slingsby, had been asked to obtain a quote or quotes for a commercial firm to perform an audit of the finances since none had been done for at least the past 20 years. She wasn't able to attend tonight, but sent a sheet comparing three firms contacted in Red Wing. 
     Ken Slingsby, Clerk presented the liquor license renewal form for the Bleu Dog Cafe. He had thought only the clerk's signature would be needed, but the County stated the Chairperson also had to sign. Ken Slingsby also presented a form from the Homeland Security Emergency Management that wanted a chairperson signature. This would release the state funds to partly pay for road damages due to a flooding event in May-June, 2019. FEMA has paid their share in 2020.
     Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills. Andrew Jenson seconded.

     The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 P.M.


GUESTS
Steve Sweeney                Daniel Fox               Tom Wertzfeld                Barb Nelson               Mike Creglow
Elizabeth Pasch               Kyle Swarbrick (representing Bjornson)    Ross Nelson                Lucas Langenfeld


May 13, 2021
Special Meeting – Welch Sewer
     Some members of the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission met with Tom Wirtzfeld, Advanced Septic Solutions for a tour of the Welch Sewer System and controls. Mr. Wirtzfeld opened the control cabinet which showed the age of the components that control the functions of the pumps involved. He also pointed out the three buried tanks and described the function of each. This equipment is all located in the shared parking lot located a short distance south of the Cannon River Inn.
The most northern tank is a grease trap for the Cannon River Inn. The middle tank and southern tank are holding tanks for the sewage from all connected buildings in the village. A much smaller tank containing the two lift pumps and control panel are farthest from the Cannon River Inn. It was noted the so called Nelson Apartments Building is not connected to the Sewer System, but has its own septic tank and drain field.
     It was noted the Bleu Dog Cafe drains all effluent into the same pipe line used for the remainder of the village, not into the grease trap used by the Cannon River Inn.
     These pumps are operated by the control panel and level switches in the small tank. The control panel alternates the pumps to equalize the number of hours each pump runs as only one pump is needed to lower the level of the tanks and pump the sewage to the drain field, located across the Cannon River and adjacent to the Town Hall.
Mr. Wirtzfeld noted that salad dressing and blood from defrosting meats are more harmful to the drain field than 'normal' sewage. He also noted the style of plumbing in the pump cavity requires pumping the the two holding tanks and the pump pit before entering the confined space of the pump pit. He suggested that if the pumps are to be replaced the plumbing should be modified to allow removal of the pumps without entering the pit. Thus the removal, repair, and reinstall of the pumps would be much easier and cheaper. Also discussed was an upgrade to the control panel allowing remote monitoring of the system.
      The meeting was over approximately 8:15 P.M. We thank Mr. Wirtzfeld for taking time to explain the system.
Attendees:
Tom Wirtzfeld, Advanced Septic          Aaron Bauer               Andrew Jenson               Marcus Johnson
Mike Creglow                                            Thomas Ryan             Ken Slingsby




April 1, 2021​
     The April meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. As in previous meetings since the culmination of the COVID-19 pandemic and Governor Walz’s orders, chairs were positioned at least six feet apart, and masks and hand sanitizer provided. The meeting was called to order by ViceChair Aaron Bauer at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisor Marcus Johnson was present, and Clerk Ken Slingsby and Treasurer Thomas Ryan were also present. Chairperson Andrew Jenson was not present.
     The minutes for the March 2021 meeting were not read having been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the minutes as written and Aaron Bauer seconded. Thomas Ryan read the Treasurer’s Report and the report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the reports as written, and Aaron Bauer seconded.
BUILDING PERMIT REQUESTS
Name                                      Location                                     Description Value Fee 
Michael Haege                        13149 257 St Way                     Home addition with attached garage
Kevin Michael Gardiner       25733 152 Ave Way                  Erect a Storage building
Levi Dahling                            16279 Welch Shortcut Rd       Erect a Storage building
Jeff Endres                               46.029.0400                               Erect a Storage building
OTHER BUSINESS
     The Planning Commission held a brief meeting prior to the Town Board meeting to discuss with the building permit requests that had been identified since their March meeting. Darwin Fox introduced each requestor in turn and gave brief summaries of the requests. Each of the four requestors had no setback issues and were recommended for Town Board approval. The first three listed above are associated with an existing building and address. The Endres building would be located on presently vacant land on Welch Trail adjacent to and southeast of the Leroy Bauer home. There is presently no driveway to the property. Marcus Johnson made a motion to accept the permit request for each requestor. Aaron Bauer seconded each request in turn.
     Denise Haushild, a deputy Sheriff, introduced herself stating the department will try to have an officer at meetings more frequently than in previous years. She spoke of a recent rash of vandalism whereby a person(s) is/are removing the catalytic converters from automobiles. The department suggests marking each converter with a unique number so if found they can be traced back to the proper owner. She asked the public to call the department via either the non emergency or 911 numbers if suspicious people are observed. Aaron Bauer spoke of a recent house fire that has been demolished on Prairie Island Blvd. Debris from the demolition has been blowing around. The deputy was asked to take a look at the widening mess due to recent high winds. She was thanked for attending.
      County Commissioner Linda Flanders was recognized. She is working with Nuvera to see if it would be possible for them to provide broadband internet service to the Village of Welch and some of the residents along Welch Trail. She had been contacted by Nuvera saying they are expecting to have an engineering study to assess the cost of providing the service. They are asking if the Township could provide some funding for that portion of their project. She believes CARES money will be coming soon. 
     Darwin Fox spoke of current road status. Most areas are drying up from the frost coming out of the ground and the snow of two weeks prior. There is some evidence of soft spots forming, but those are not expected to be very numerous. They are lightly blading roads until the frost is out of the ground. The windy days brought down a few trees. They have continued to trim trees and brushing along some town roads.
     Mr. Fox also spoke of recent Planning Commission items. They recommend someone be appointed to query local land owners for a site for a new town hall. Andrew Jenson had a recent conversation with the Postal Office personnel who said they would be interested in a joint use of a new building. The Commission is reviewing the Conservation Subdivision District to see if it would mesh with the present Township Ordinances. Aaron Bauer thanked members of the Planning Commission for the impromptu special meeting where the four persons spoke of their building permit requests. Having the initial reviews performed prior to the Town Board meeting made it much quicker and easier. The Commission is looking for volunteers to perform an audit of financial records of the Township. So far three persons said they would be willing to perform the audit. Joan Slingsby, the pastTreasurer, said she thought a certified audit should be performed. She volunteered to contact some local firms to get an idea of cost and availability of staff to perform the audit. 
     Tom Wirtzfeld was recognized. He presented an invoice for services related to the Welch Sewer System. This was lower than expected because of fewer than expected calls for service. He had developed an estimate for replacing the control panel and new pumps for the system. Newer systems are being installed that make pump replacements much easier. An estimate to install the fittings for this scheme will be developed in the near future. He asked the Board to sign the request for the Operating Permit for the system. The Board asked the Clerk to sign the request on behalf of the Board. Motion by Marcus Johnson, seconded by Aaron Bauer. This was done. Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay the Advanced Septic services invoice of $1576.71. Aaron Bauer seconded. Mr. Wirtzfeld presented a contract for services that would cover two years. Previous contracts have been for one year. Aaron Bauer made a motion to sign the contract. Marcus Johnson wanted to review the contract rather than sign at this time. No action was taken on the contract for services for future years.
     The supervisors then turned the reorganization. Marcus Johnson nominated himself as vice Chairperson, and Aaron Bauer as chairperson. Aaron Bauer made a motion to use First State of Red Wing as the official bank. Marcus Johnson seconded. Marcus Johnson made a motion to use the Republican Eagle as the official paper for notices. Aaron Bauer seconded. After a brief discussion Marcus Johnson made a motion to post notices on the Town Hall door.
     The annual road tour will be set for Friday April 9 beginning approximately 12:30 P.M. This would mesh with the road tour with Douglas Township which is scheduled for the morning of that date. It was suggested the Welch Township road tour will start at the bridge near the Clancy residence on the South end of Orlando Avenue. The clerk will post a notice in the Town Hall.
     Aaron Bauer asked if Luhman Construction should pick up the trash along Prairie Island Blvd. Deputy Haushild said it might be better if a Sheriff stopped by and advised the resident that they are liable for cleanup.
     The Planning Commission had discussed the present Town Hall. The building is deteriorating and is in a location prone to flooding. He said there are at least two locations where a new building could be sited. Aaron Bauer said he had gotten a text from Andrew Jenson who had spoken with a Postal representative who said they would consider co-locating if a building became available.
      Ken Slingsby urged the Board to consider sending a donation to Free Conference Call, the company that supplied the telephone software in support of the four recent virtual meetings of the Town Board. Marcus Johnson made a motion to send Free Conference Call a donation of $50 in support of the service. Aaron Bauer seconded.
     In the open discussion period, Marcus Johnson asked if the Board had considered using the State Auditor's small City and Towns Accounting System (CTAS) as described in the Association of Townships Spring Short course. Ken Slingsby said he and Joan had reviewed the software a few years ago and were dismayed that it was not written for Mac computers and that it appeared less than user friendly with a chart of accounts that spanned 14 pages. Tom Ryan said he would be willing to try the software that he, too had seen described in the Short Course. Another person stated maybe the Township should purchase two computers that would be dedicated to that usage, then both the Treasurer and Clerk would be using the same program and could more easily compare results. The Treasurer was asked to try to get an estimate of costs to move to that system.
      Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills. Aaron Bauer seconded.
     Marcus Johnson made a motion to adjourn. Aaron Bauer seconded.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 P.M.

GUESTS
Joan Slingsby            Michael Haege            Tom Wirtzfeld            Levi Dahling            Barb Nelson
Steve Sweeney         Brett Nelson                 Mike Creglow             Linda Flanders        Darwin Fox
Jeff Endress              KevinMichael Gardiner                                   Elizabeth Pasch



LOCAL BOARD OF APPEAL & EQUALIZATION
April 21, 2021
     Aaron Bauer, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 4:32 P.M. Present for the Township were Supervisors Aaron, Andrew Jenson, and Ken Slingsby, Clerk. It was verified that Aaron Bauer had completed his training for the LBAE. Present for the County Assessor's Office were Laura Ramboldt, Lavon Augustine and Jordon Safe.
     Laura Ramboldt started off saying in Welch Township there was only one residential sale in the period from March 2020 to March 2021 and that had sold for an amount within the 15% range of assessed value compared to sale price. There were no Ag sales. For Welch Township four persons had called the assessor's office prior to the meeting.
     Rachael Ryan purchased the Paul Lawrence home. The sale closed after March 2021 and after the assessor's review of the site. At the time of review, the house and approximately 40 acres were for sale. The house and 8 acres sold for considerably less than the appraised value. The Ryans had questioned the big difference. Because the sale happened after the appraisal and no one had answered the phone, also no one was at the meeting to discuss, Andrew Jenson made a motion to make no change in the 2022 taxes. Aaron Bauer seconded. If the Ryans want to pursue the matter, they can appear at the County BAE meeting.
     Kay Oaks, Madeline Baird, and Cathy Bjorklund each had questions about their appraisal, but seemed satisfied with the answers they received on the phone.
     There were no other questions and no guests at the meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:02 P.M.



​March 4, 2021 
     The March meeting was held as an in-person meeting in the Welch Town Hall. As in previous meetings since the culmination of the COVID-19 pandemic and Governor Walz’s orders, chairs were positioned with at least six feet of distance between, and masks and hand sanitizer provided. The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Andrew Jenson at 7:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Supervisors Aaron Bauer and Marcus Johnson were present, and Clerk Ken Slingsby and Treasurer Joan Slingsby were also present.
     The minutes for the February 2021 meeting were not read having been previously sent to the Town Board members for review. Aaron Bauer moved to accept the minutes as written and Marcus Johnson seconded. Joan Slingsby read the Treasurer’s Report and the report for the SSD of the Village of Welch. Marcus Johnson moved to accept the reports as written, and Aaron Bauer seconded.
     There were no building permit requests.
OTHER BUSINESS
     County Commissioner Linda Flanders had sent word that she would be unable to attend. She had said the Goodhue Co. would start signups for the Covid vaccine for those over 65 starting March 8. She also mentioned a phone conference with Nuvera in which Mike Creglow also participated. Mike Creglow spoke of portions of the conversation stating that Nuvera, the company planning to install broadband fiber cable in Vasa Township had been asked to provide service in the Village of Welch and along Welch Trail. Nuvera stated the State government (who is providing the grant for Vasa Township) were not interested in extending the scope of the project. Nuvera asked if the Township would be interested in partly funding the project. Another idea voiced would be to erect a tower in Vasa Township to provide wireless to the Welch area. This would not be as capable as fiber broadband, but would provide an improvement over the current situation. Currently the State provides 45% of the cost of installation; Nuvera provides 55%. No action was taken at this time.
     Darwin Fox spoke of the road conditions. He stated the roads are softening as the snow melts. If temperatures hold, he expects to be able to lightly grade most roads which would hasten drying. He wanted to trim some trees along Orlando Avenue, but some land owners were not interested. The Douglas Township supervisors asked if a joint meeting could be scheduled to discuss bridge replacement/repair on the bridge near the Clancy residence. He also asked if the clerk could advertise for application of dust control chemical. Aaron Bauer made a motion to advertise for dust control. Marcus Johnson seconded. Motion carried.
     Andrew Jenson asked if an audit of the financial records should be done. Both Marcus Johnson and Aaron Bauer thought it would be a good idea to get an estimate of cost for an audit. The idea was prompted by recent news of a person in Vermillion Township had embezzled about $800,000. Joan Slingsby stated the bank could also sent monthly statements to both the treasurer as now and also another officer. Aaron Bauer made a motion to have the Planning Commission investigate the cost and scope of an audit.
     Andrew Jenson spoke of a letter sent by Terry Fruth to a person in a State Department. The letter contained several mistakes and misconceptions of fact. Ken Slingsby was appointed to write a rebuttal letter, encouraged by Einar Hanson, having it reviewed by Liz Pasch and Einar Hanson before sending it to the same person in the State. Following a brief discussion, Aaron Bauer made a motion to have the Clerk, Ken Slingsby write a letter of rebuttals to the Fruth letter, and have it reviewed by MS Pasch and Mr. Hanson before it is sent on the the State. Marcus Johnson seconded the motion. Motion carried.
     Ken Slingsby stated he had taped a poster on the back wall concerning the COVID shots available from the County.   He had gotten an email from the Twin Cities-Milwaukee-Chicago express train which would be a second daily train available soon. Both the County Fair Board and the County History Center had sent letters requesting donations. He also announced the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization will meet April 21, 4:30 P.M. He is unsure if it will be a virtual meeting or in-person at this time.
     A motion made by Aaron Bauer, seconded by Marcus Johnson would send a $500 donation to the County History Center and a second $500 to the Goodhue County Fair; as has been done in recent years. Motion carried.
     A motion made by Marcus Johnson, seconded by Aaron Bauer would keep the Township levies the same as in the past at $175,000 for Road and Bridge, $65,000 for Fire Protection, and $9,000 for the Revenue funds. Motion carried.
     Andrew Jenson asked if the Planning Commission could investigate and compare the options for repairing the Town Hall or build a new Town Hall. There was some discussion of why the Planning Commission should be charged with this activity. It was stated there were more members on the commission and might be better able to carry out the activity.
     Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay for a short term rental of a porta potty for the Township Election and Annual Meeting. Aaron Bauer seconded. The motion carried. Darwin Fox said he believed it could be accomplished.
     Darwin Fox stated he had recently attended a meeting of the Douglas Town Board. They have a feature near the end of the meeting for audience comments. He introduced two of his neighbors that wanted to speak. Mr. Fox said he would leave the room for their comments. Ron Friesen and Kirk Zibble spoke of the poor condition of Prairie Island Blvd. It has several pot holes in the blacktop and many large cracks. Mr. Friesen stated the Township has controlled the road for several years but other than applying some rock to the shoulders, has done nothing to improve the blacktop. It is very rough and is hard on farm equipment and trucks to travel the road. Both men agreed that something needs to be done soon rather than wait for grant money to repave the road at a future date. Marcus Johnson thanked the two men for coming to the meeting, and conducting a thoughtful discussion. It was stated the PIIC had promised some BIA funding to improve the road, but were not able to carry out the promise. The Supervisors agreed to review the road and options available.
     Marcus Johnson made a motion to pay current bills. Aaron Bauer seconded the motion.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 P.M.

GUESTS
Barb Nelson                 Darwin Fox                 Mike Creglow               Ron Friesen               Kirk Zibble
Steve Sweney               Liz Pasch                     Tom Ryan


March 9, 2021
ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTION
     The Annual Town Meeting, held in the Town of Welch in the County of Goodhue and the State of Minnesota on the ninth Day of March, 2021 was called to order by the Township Clerk, Ken Slingsby at 8: 05 PM. Elizabeth Pasch volunteered to act as moderator. 
     A representative from the Goodhue Sheriff's office, Deputy Tyler Rogers, was present. He spoke for a few minutes on several topics. He stated the department had fielded 6000 calls due to the COVID. The Sheriff's Department has implemented a new program for inmates to help with later freedom. One of the K-9 dogs had retired leaving two in the department. Due to training needs the dog will not be replaced until 2022.  Two new deputies may be hired in 2021. Several deputies had been sent to Minneapolis to help quell the rioters during May of 2020.  At this time two deputies have been sent to Akin County for help on the petroleum line. There was one house that had been investigated due to fentenol in the past year. He was thanked for attending the meeting.
     The moderator, at the opening of the meeting, stated the business to be transacted and the order of same as printed on the agenda which had been distributed to all guests along with the treasurer's reports of the Township.
     The minutes of the 2020 Annual Meeting were read by the clerk. The minutes of the 2020 meeting were approved on a motion made by Aaron Bauer and seconded by Mike Creglow. The motion carried by a voice vote. 
     Copies of the Annual Treasurer’s Reports were distributed before the meeting. There were no corrections or additions. The Annual Treasurer’s Reports were accepted as printed on a motion made by Tom Ryan and seconded by Andrew Jenson. 
     On motion by the Town Board in a prior meeting, it was ordered the following sums of money be raised by tax upon the taxable property in said Township for the following purposes for the current tax year: 
                                                Road and Bridge $175,000
                                                Fire 65,000
                                                Revenue 9,000
     It was noted there was no increase from the previous year. The Clerk announced that due to a change suggested by the Minnesota Association of Townships, the Town Board is the only body that can set levies and authorize expenditures. 
     There were motions in previous years to fill the basement of the Town Hall with sand to help alleviate pressure on the walls during high water periods. The Clerk announced the most recent Town Board meeting had asked the Planning Commission to investigate and compare the costs of repairing the current Town Hall verses building new. There were no motions made on the idea.
     The Clerk noted a previous Town Board meeting had voted to make donations to the County Fair Board of $500 and the County History Center of $500, the same amounts as had been made in the previous year. There was general agreement in favor of the action. Clerk’s note: The donations fall under a provisions in the Minnesota statutes § 38.12 pertaining to County Fairs, and § 138.053 pertaining to County Historical Societies. 
      There were no other motions.
     The Board of Canvas reported the results of the Annual Election: A total of 82 votes were cast. There were no spoiled ballots and included 10 absentee ballots. There were no write-in votes cast.
          Supervisor for the term of three years:   Andrew Jenson 81 votes
          Andrew Jenson was declared elected Supervisor, term of three years, to continue his term.
          Treasurer for the term of two years:  Thomas Ryan 80 votes
         Thomas Ryan was declared elected Treasurer, term of two years, to start a new term.
     There were no questions on the ballot. The Automark machine was not used. 
     The resulting Town Board members are:
Supervisors: Aaron Bauer,  Andrew Jenson,   Marcus Johnson
Treasurer: Thomas Ryan
Clerk: Ken Slingsby
The meeting was recessed at 8:30 PM to be continued at a later date if needed.


GUESTS
Bob Luhman               Dan Bauer               Barb Nelson               Liz Pasch               Tyler Rogers
Aaron Bauer               Tom Ryan                Darwin Fox                Mike Creglow        Joan Slingsby