MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
PALMER TOWNSHIP
July 14, 2025
The regular meeting of the Palmer Township Board was called to order at 7:00 p.m. at the Palmer Township Hall, with Chairman Ganz, and Supervisor Demeules present. Also present were Amy Bragelman, Township Clerk, and Treasurer Roger Johnson. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Roger Johnson read the balances from the Treasurer's report. Supervisor Demeules made a motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report. Chairman Ganz seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.
Sheriff’s Report: Captain Ben Zawacki read the Sheriff’s report for June. There were 65 Total calls for service as compared to 92 calls for service in 2024. There was 1 dog complaint, 5 fraud complaints, 10 traffic stops, 3 security checks, 11 extra patrols, 1 abandoned vehicle, 1 accident, 6 medicals, and 2 ATV complaints, to name a few. A resident inquired about legal ages for ATV drivers and golf cart operators. Captain Zawacki stated that it varies; however, if you're concerned, always call. They may have to start issuing tickets as warnings may not be working.
Road Maintenance/Signs: Supervisor Demeules reported Ongoing difficulty in obtaining tar for road maintenance. Chairman Ganz noted that ditch mowing was completed prior to the 4th of July holiday. Three road patches were recently repaired throughout the township, one on 121st Street, one on 57th Street near Briggs Lake access, and one on the corner of 109th Avenue and 47th1/2 Street. Chairman Ganz reported that the delayed road signs have finally been delivered after a 6-week wait. Jeff Peterson will be installing the signs later this week. Supervisor Demeules also emphasized that they need to establish a budget for future sign replacement, noting that many signs throughout Palmer Township are faded and in need of replacement. Supervisor Demeules expressed frustration over the ongoing issue of having to clear trees that have fallen from private properties into the road right of way, stating it is becoming an increasing burden.
Fire Department: Supervisor Demeules reported that at a recent fire budget meeting, the supervisors were informed that the budget will increase by 16% for the upcoming year, primarily because the firefighters are currently severely underpaid and adjustments are necessary to address wage concerns.
Chief Koren reported for June. The monthly call report for 6/09/2025 to 7/14/2025 shows 32 calls for the Clear Lake Fire Department. 14 of those calls were for Palmer Township: 13 medicals, and 1 auto accident.
P.E.C.: Treasure Roger Johnson reported that the report was turned in June.
Park Report: Roger reported that he is currently working on drafting and posting a set of rules for display outside the pickleball courts. Supervisor Ganz noted that a tree that fell two weeks ago has been removed, and the wood was donated to a local veteran. Additionally, a tractor has
been purchased for use in the park. A resident expressed concerns that the cartway has not been mowed. The supervisors will make sure that it gets done this week. Also, the individuals responsible for vandalizing the park have been billed for damages. Supervisor Demeules reported on behalf of Two Inlets Regional Park. They are still on track for acquiring the Morehouse property from the Trust of Public Land. Work is currently underway on a National Register of Historic Places nomination, with a Consulting team actively managing the process. Additionally, another Bond request has been submitted for the 2026 legislative session. A launch event is scheduled for August 23rd from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Informational signs will be placed along the current walking path. Pre-registration is required for those who wish to attend.
Lake Reports: The Briggs Lake Chain Association was not in attendance and did not provide a report. The T-LID is currently working to finalize the budget ahead of the annual meeting scheduled for August 16th. At this meeting, Property Owners will have the opportunity to vote on a proposed property tax assessment.
Due to recent changes related to the grant funding for the Alum treatment, the project may be delayed by up to 2 years. Meanwhile, the carp management efforts are progressing, though at a slower pace than anticipated.
Chairman Ganz noted that there are currently two porta-potties at the Briggs Lake access, one provided by the township and one by the Department of Natural Resources. The township-funded unit will be removed as soon as possible. He explained that the DNR covers the cost of the porta-potties at the Lake Landing during the summer months, while Palmer Township assumes responsibility during the winter months.
Approval of Minutes: Supervisor Demeules made a motion to approve the June minutes. Chairman Ganz seconded, and the motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS: Nothing
NEW BUSINESS: Jay Manders was not in attendance. He is a representative from Northern Reliability. They have requested the use of the Township roads to access and replace electric transmission poles. The township will need to reach a formal agreement with the company regarding road use. Compensation will be required for any use-related impacts or damages, although the exact cost has yet to be determined.
COMMENTS/QUESTIONS: Treasurer Roger Johnson suggested that we check the gas oil intercept holding tank in the Sheriff’s Bay. Chairman Ganz agreed.
Resident Richard Larson expressed concerns regarding the curbside organic recycling program being implemented by Sherburne County. His concerns centered around the potential for increased rodent activity and unpleasant odors, which he believes could negatively impact nearby residents. Chairman Ganz addressed the concerns and explained the benefits of the curbside Organics recycling program. He noted that in his experience, no order was present as long as the dumpster lid remained closed.
Supervisor Demeules made a motion to approve claims #25146- #25174, plus Conexus, $158,521.83. Chairman Ganz seconded, and the motion carried.
Chairman Ganz made a motion to adjourn. Supervisor Demeules seconded, and the motion was carried. The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Amy Bragelman, Palmer Township Clerk, Approved as reviewed July 14, 2025