TOWN OF BLAINE
MEETING MINUTES
Wednesday, January 11, 2023
Chairman Jessica Estridge called the January 11, 2023 monthly board meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
Present were Chairman Jessica Estridge, Supervisor Josh Fornengo, Supervisor Bryan Holter, Clerk Charla Zaccardi, Treasurer Mona Velebir, Ron and Sandy Gallagher, Kevin and Kathy Tidemand, Kent and Jennifer Klausing, Ron and Sharon Proffit, Nicole Sear, Brandie Fornengo, Dori Willett, Matt Holter and Billy Fish.
Pledge of Allegiance
Clerk’s Report: Supervisor Josh Fornengo motioned to approve the December 28, 2022 meeting minutes with corrections regarding it should read 20 feet wide of road surface on Big Hill Road and the additional request for snow plowing on Namekagon Point Road again and additional edits as discussed in the meeting. Supervisor Bryan Holter seconded. Motion approved.
Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mona Velebir reported.
Expenses: Supervisor Josh Fornengo made a motion to approve payment of monthly expenditures as submitted. Supervisor Bryan Holter seconded. Motion approved.
Citizen’s Input: None
Chairman’s Report: Chairman Jessica Estridge reported Hillside Cemetery is still in the process of being surveyed and a map created. The driveways and cemetery spaces have been surveyed for the new part. Survey stakes were discussed and what to use. Chairman Jessica Estridge mentioned the surveyor will come to an upcoming board meeting in the spring to update the board on the results.
Chairman Jessica Estridge will find out more about the notice of a public hearing from Burnett County mentioning the Radigan Dam.
OLD BUSINESS:
Road Equipment Update: Ron Gallagher reported that a new windshield and mirrors on the truck will need replacement due to the storm. It was reported the grader is coming up on 4,000 hours and will need and undergo extensive service which will be done in the spring. Supervisor Josh Fornengo will look into the cost of parts for the service.
Road Condition Report: Ron Gallagher reported that roads are plowed and sanded. Big Island Road landing will be cleared for the school bus. A road review should be done soon due to missing, blocked and or downed signs for emergency services.
Fire Report: Dairyland Fire Chief Billy Fish informed the board of last year’s total fire runs last month and only one additional medical and one mutual aid call was had. He indicated that volunteers and donations are always welcome.
Northland Community Center:
Spring Primary, February 21, 2023
Spring Election, April 4, 2023
Waste & Recycle Transfer Station: HOURS: 4 PM to 7PM Wednesday evenings, and 11 AM to 3 PM Sunday’s . Chairman Jessica Estridge said she has heard nothing but good things about our new attendant, Ryan.
NEW BUSINESS:
1) Supervisor Josh Fornengo proposed 15 to 20 feet on each side of the road should have heavy brushing done. A lot of the brush is so full another company should come in and do this. It was determined there are shoulder issues for plowing and it was hard for vehicles to get thru on the roads.
2) Road employee job description for posting – the board is hiring additional help for Ron. A job description was edited for publication which includes 62 miles of roads, 40 hours a week. The start date would be March 30, 2023. The application deadline will be March 1, 2023. Supervisor Josh Fornengo motioned to approve the ad posting for the road maintenance position. Supervisor Bryan Holter, seconded. Motion approved.
ITEMS TO BE PLACED ON THE FEBRUARY AGENDA:
- Road maintenance disaster plan
- General guideline for road maintenance benefits.
Agenda items due Friday before each meeting.
Supervisor Josh Fornengo made a motion to adjourn at 7:38 pm. Supervisor Bryan Holter seconded. Motion passed. Meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Charla Zaccardi, Clerk
Signed and dated this 11th day of January, 2023
By: ________________________________________
Jessica Estridge, Chairman