In Ken Anderson’s absence, Burdette Nelson chaired the meeting. Meeting was called to order at 7 p.m. Don Clements, Keith Larson, Karene Uhe, Doreen O’Donnell, Tim and Judy St. Clair, Steve Highman, Hugh Harper, and John and Rosie McCullick were in attendance. At 7:05 Jan Buttress, realtor, and Jim Holmberg arrived. Bruce Hanson arrived at 7:11.

 

Proof of proper notice was shown.

 

Don motioned and Burdette seconded to approve minutes of March 1, 2005.

 

Jan Buttress is selling property for Scott Freeman. According to the township, Freeman needs a driveway that complies with the driveway ordinance. The title company attorney does not see how the driveway permit ordinance could be enforced, as Freeman’s driveway does not lead to a town road or to a state highway, but to a shared easement. In order for the commonly shared easement road to be taken over by the township for a town road, the property owners along the easement must bring the easement road up to township specifications. Tim St. Clair stated that there probably are state standards that the easement road does not comply with.

 

Burdette motioned to approve the existing driveway off of existing shared common access road (easement) “as is” because the easement road has existed since the 1990’s. The town board will not be held liable for fire and EMS services if emergency vehicles cannot get to the existing properties, on the stipulation that the landowners become compliant with the 911 code (Ordinance 2004-2). Don seconded. All in favor; motion carried.

 

Treasurer’s report: Current checkbook balance is $97,256. $56.000 is in a savings account; $50,000 is in a 6-month CD at 2% interest; $15,000 (new equipment account) is in a 12 month CD at 2.76%. Jered Fortney has not paid personal property tax for his mobile home of $115.81, and has not responded within the 30 days Karene stated in her letter. Board noted that Floyd Baker owns the land, and perhaps Fortney does not own the mobile home. Karene will contact Baker regarding this at the end of the month if Fortney hasn’t responded.

 

New Business:  Jim Holmberg stated that the board seems “unclear about issues and rules.” He is concerned that once the comprehensive plan is passed, the board has to comply. He would appreciate a response to the issues he is bringing up. Hugh Harper questioned whether Kraemer will haul and spread gravel purchased by private owners this year. The price per yard is not decided yet. He asked about the board’s schedule for sealcoating. His concern is a culvert that needs to be replaced on Aikins Road, which the board stated will be replaced when the road is sealcoated. A hole continues to form near the culvert. John and Rosie McCullick questioned the accepting of Scott’s sealcoat bid over Amon’s. Bruce Hansen reminded the board of his request to have the draft comprehensive plan put onto a PDF file, accessible on the township website.

 

Burdette motioned and Don seconded to approve accounts payable of $6,040.62 which includes the first quarter fire contract payment to the Village of Readstown.

 

Discussion about the guard railing was tabled as Kenny was absent.

 

Doreen asked to board to clarify policy 2001-1 regarding hiring town officers as allowed by state statutes.  Board stated they will be paid current rate as patrolmen.

 

Next meeting dates are set for Monday April 4 and Monday April 18, 2005, at 7 p.m. The Annual Meeting date is April 12, 2005 at 7 p.m.

 

At 9 p.m. Don motioned to adjourn. Burdette seconded. All in favor; motion carried.

 

Respectfully submitted by

Doreen M. O’Donnell, Clerk