Minutes
DRAFT – Town Board Meeting Minutes – Aug. 18, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn – Bayfield County
DRAFT – Town Board Meeting Minutes – August 18, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00pm by Scottie Sandstrom, Chair.
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Seth Vasser, Matt Tetzner, Christina Eliason, Vicki Thoen, Mike Harvey, Kim Bro, Jim Park, Jay Glase
Proper public notice was verified: Ashland Daily Press, Town Website, Tetzner’s Dairy and Town Hall.
Public Comment: none
A motion was made by Seth to accept the agenda. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Seth made the motion to approve the minutes from July 14 meeting. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Reports:
Clerk – Vicki reported that 289 people voted at the Primary Election. 43 Absentee Ballots were issued and 37 were returned. The poll workers suggested that we purchase chairs without wheels. They sit in the chairs for seven hours on election day and the uneven floors make it difficult to be comfortable in chairs with wheels. It was also noted that the wheels are leaving divots in the floor. The Board approved gathering information on replacement chairs to be presented at the September meeting.
We received a notice from the County that our septic system had not been serviced since March of 2021 and it needs to be serviced every 3 years to be in compliance with Bayfield County codes. #2 Septic was contacted and they promptly serviced the system.
At last month’s meeting the Board requested that we hold payment to Monroe Trucking until Mike could confirm the invoice was correct. Mike confirmed that the invoice was more than expected because we purchased a better spreader than originally quoted. The check was released.
Treasurer – Christina reported that the bank accounts have been reconciled for July 2026. One snowplow invoice is still outstanding and she sent a third and final invoice. The balance due will be placed on the 2026 Tax Statement for collection. Old National Bank accounts have been closed. The August 2026 Tax Settlement for the 2nd half of tax collection was $28,013.70.
Road Crew – Mike reported that the new tractor has a fluid leak. He contacted Lulich and they came to get it and will make repairs that will be covered under warranty.
Both culverts on Wannebo Road should be replaced/repaired. He suggested that if we have the money in the budget, we can place sleeves to fix the problem at an estimated cost $23,000. The culvert on Ondossagon Road needs to be repaired and can also be fixed with a sleeve. The estimated cost is $6000. There is money in the budget. A motion to proceed with sleeves to fix culverts this fall was made by Matt, Seth seconded. All ayes. Motion carried. Jay Glase would like to have the pine trees at the landfill that fell during the April storm. Board discussed and decided since he wants them, he can have them. Seth made the motion to let Jay remove two pine trees from the land fill site after signing a waiver of liability. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Brevak Road needs approximately 1800 yards of gravel = 2700 tons = $62,100. We have $22,000 available in budget. We will wait until later in the fall to see if the money is still available in the budget or if this should wait until next year.
Mike told the board about some health issues he has been having. He has taken time off for doctor’s appointments and illness. Asked that we purchase a large fan for the garage to help ventilate. He proposed that we buy a 36” industrial fan for $300. Board approved.
Chair – Scottie called Mitch Finnegan of the DOT who is involved with City of Washburn project next year. Asked that the Town be involved in the meeting to know who has the contract so that they can help with cost of calcium chloride for Hove Lane. The next Fire/EMS meeting will be 8/25 at 9:00am at City Hall. He attended the Data Center meeting at the Great Lakes Visitor Center on July 27. A UW extension representative gave a presentation. It is unlikely that we will see large data centers around here. Bayfield County will possibly place a 12-month moratorium on Data Centers so that the County can develop a plan to regulate. Many people are concerned that it could be very large data centers with concerns about land and resource usage.
Approval of Reports – Seth made a motion to approve the reports. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Plan Commission – Kim Bro commented that the Town’s Comprehensive Plan contains some information about Emergency Planning. The Plan Commission recommends approval of the Driveway Permit for Gerald and Amy Fleming. Scottie made the motion that the Board approve the permit. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Kim mentioned a building permit was issued by the County but owners don’t have an acceptable driveway. They have a driveway permit but continue to use a logging road. Kim reached out to them to see if they have a plan for the driveway. The ordinance is in place to make sure that emergency services can access the property. We will follow up at the September meeting to see if they have responded to Kim’s email. Mike Vavrus driveway is not as specified in the permit regarding slope and culvert. He paid a contractor to do the work, but it wasn’t done correctly. Mike Harvey has discussed it with Mike Vavrus. Kim will email him that it needs to be a 24” culvert per the approved permit. Kim reported that 4500 cubic yards of acceptable clay is needed for landfill cap (that computes to 300 truckloads). We hope to obtain it from the City of Washburn 2027 Road construction.
Update on Enforcement of Fugitive Dust Resolution – Seth reported that he talked with John Carlson and he confirmed that we do have the right to enforce speed limits and weight limits on Hove Lane for the trucks going to the sand pit.
Developing a Town Emergency Management Plan – Seth made the motion that the Town Chair act as our Emergency Management Coordinator. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. It was suggested that the Road Supervisor’s contact information be included in the plan. The plan will need to be updated annually or any time contact information changes. Matt made the motion that we move ahead with the Emergency Plan. Scottie seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Vicki will add Mike’s contact information and then share the plan with the County and post on the website.
Items to be placed on future agendas:
Follow up on driveways not in compliance
Purchase of chairs for town hall
2027 Budget planning for road crew
Authorize the payment of bills – After reviewing the bills, Seth made the motion to authorize payment. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Adjournment – Scottie made the motion to adjourn at 8:53pm. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Draft Town Board Meeting Minutes – July 14, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn – Bayfield County
Town Board Meeting Minutes – July 14, 2026
**Draft Only until Board approval at August 18 meeting**
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Scottie Sandstrom, Chair.
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen, Christina Eliason. Mike Harvey, David Warren, Tom Cogger, Caroline Twombly.
Proper public notice was verified: Ashland Daily Press, Tetzner’s Dairy, Town Hall, & Town website
Public Comment: None
A motion was made by Seth to accept the Agenda. Scottie seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
A motion was made by Seth to approve the Minutes from previous meeting. Scottie seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Reports:
Clerk – Reminded the Board that the August meeting will be on August 18 due to the Primary Election being held on August 11. Absentee Ballots are being sent out. 35 have been sent and 8 returned. Received notification that the state’s request for emergency aid related to cost incurred from the April 17 storm was denied.
Treasurer – Bank accounts are reconciled. One snowplow invoice is outstanding and the third and final invoice has been sent. If payment isn’t received, we can put the amount owed on their 2026 tax bill. All bank account info has been switched to Northern State Bank. Goal is to close out the Old National Bank Accounts by the end of the month.
Road Crew – Mike reported that Dayton Road is done, rock has been spread. Share the Road signs have been posted. The culvert on Ondossagon Road needs repair/replace. Adding a sleeve will save the black top road. Mike is getting an estimate. There are 2 culverts on Wannebo Road that need attention too. Mike will check those to see if they can be repaired with a sleeve. David Warren stated things are going well. Mike reports that he is doing a good job.
Chair – Residents have reported that Spectrum has been out in the town burying cable. Norvado will build out the gravel portion of North Maple Hill Road with fiber optic this month or early August. There are two other areas near County C which also weren’t built out last year, as they weren’t part of the overall grant. They will work on securing funds for building those areas out perhaps in 2027. County EMS meeting tomorrow (7/15/26) at 2:00 pm at County Court house. Bayfield County Clean Sweep is scheduled July 23 from 2 pm – 6 pm at the Bayfield County Fair Grounds in Iron River. The next meeting of the Wisconsin Towns Association is July 27. Data Center Impacts Information Meetings are scheduled for Monday, July 27, 6 – 8 pm and Tuesday, July 28, 1:30 – 3:30 pm at the Great lakes Visitor Center
Approval of Reports: Seth made the motion to approve the reports. Scottie seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Plan Commission – Caroline Twombly reported that the commission did the annual inspection of the landfill. There are trees sprouting along the edge of the cap that should be cleared. They recommended approval of the driveway permit for Bridget and Peter Olson. The Board approved. Tom Cogger – reported that the Dark Sky committee has been meeting monthly. Planning on having a Dark Sky Art event in the future. Would like to retro fit the outdoor lights at the Town hall to limit the amount of light going up. They will keep us informed of any future recommendation and events.
Enforcement of Fugitive Dust Resolution: Seth reported that he called his contact at the Sheriff’s department. Talked to Chris Benton at the sheriff’s office and he questioned if we had the authority to post the 15 mph speed limit signs. According to the Ordinance, we have authority with police powers to enact environmental protection ordinances. They will help enforce it if it’s posted legally. The Board discussed and confirmed that it is our right to post the speed limit.
Finalize 5-Year Road Plan 2026-2031: The Board reviewed the 5-Year Road Plan and discussed priorities for road repairs and improvement plan.
Items to be placed on future agendas:
Enforcement of Fugitive Dust Resolution
Authorize the payment of bills: Seth made the motion to authorize the payment of the bills with exception of the check for Monroe Trucking. Mike will check into the charges on the invoice and confirm that it is correct. Scottie seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Adjournment: Seth made the motion to adjourn at 8:05. Scottie seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Town Board Meeting Minutes – June 9, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn
DRAFT – Town Board Meeting Minutes – June 9, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:01 by Scottie Sandstrom, Chair.
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen. Mike Harvey, Kim Bro, Stephanie Lodge
Online: Wendy Stein, Jerry Smith (Superior Sealers)
Proper public notice was verified: Ashland Daily Press, Tetzner’s Dairy, Town Hall, & website.
Public Comment: Stephanie Lodge asked about the process for applying for an additional road on her property. Advised to discuss with the Plan Commission.
A motion was made by Matt to accept the agenda. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
A motion was made by Seth to approve the Minutes from the May 12 meeting and June 4 Special meeting. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Reports:
Clerk – Reported that she and the treasurer have been working on getting the new accounts set up at Northern State Bank. The bill payments for approval should be the last checks written from the Old National Bank account. Scottie helped with taking the voting machines to the County Court House for annual maintenance. We didn’t have anyone mowing the lawn at the Town Hall. A notice was posted on Facebook and Pat Guske was the first to respond. He will be doing the mowing as needed throughout the summer.
Treasurer – Bank accounts have been reconciled for May 2026. We are in a strong cash position. One snowplow invoice is still outstanding. They have received a second invoice and if they don’t pay, we can put the amount owed on their 2026 Tax Bill. If payment isn’t received by the end of June, she will send out a final invoice with a letter explaining that the owed amount will be added to their tax bill. Working on getting online access to the Norther State Bank accounts, activating debit cards and getting direct deposits switched over.
Road Crew – Mike reported that they have been busy grading and mowing. Waiting on the back hoe to get fixed. Gravel has been added to Hove Lane as the first step in dust mitigation. Discussed 15 mph speed limit enforcement and asking sheriff to have randomly check speeds on that road. New tractor is working well and the box plate has been a good investment.
Chair – April 17 storm damage on Nevers Rd has been cleaned up. Mike and Tetzner’s Excavating took less time than expected. Some residence in the Town don’t have infrastructure for Norvado available yet. Scottie checked into this and learned that the grant limited the area. Scottie thought the second grant was going to serve the entire town of Washburn. Norvado is looking at getting service to some of the pockets that don’t have service. He reminded the Board that the Road Tours are this Friday at 8:00 am. Meet at the Town Hall.
Approval of Reports: Matt made the motion to approve the reports. Seth seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Plan Commission: Kim reported that the County Zoning changes are mainly to get in alignment with state minimum ordinances. Most are required ordinances and will be approved quickly. The Plan Commission is going to suggest that there should be an ordinance dealing with development on steep slopes. The board agreed to sign the letter to the zoning committee with that suggestion. Seth moved to send the County the suggestion letter, Scottie seconded, all ayes. Motion carried. Scottie signed the letter. Kim will send it.
Open Crack Sealing Road Bids: Superior Sealers, Bloomer WI $36,630; Seal Tech, Cambridge MN, $60,560; Fahrner Asphalt, $88,120; Precision Seal Coating, southern WI, $70,000. After comparing the bids and processes proposed, the board voted to accept the bid from Seal Tech. Seth made the motion that we accept Seal Tech’s bid. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Discussion/Action on Road Striping this year: Will put off until next year due to budgetary concerns.
Resolution to change Blueberry Rd name to FR692 – Resolution 2026-4 Seth made the motion that we change Blueberry Rd. to FR692. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Items to be placed on future agendas:
Craft 5 year road plan
Hove Lane speed limit enforcement update
Authorize the payment of bills: After review, Seth made the motion to authorize the payment of the bills. Matt seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Adjournment: Scottie made the motion for adjournment at 8:36. Seth seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Town Board Special Meeting Minutes – June 4, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn
Bayfield County
Special Meeting Minutes – June 4, 2026
This is a follow up meeting with the Town Boards of Barksdale and Bayview, and the City of Washburn, to discuss the establishing a new 5-Year Fire/EMS Contract with the City of Washburn.
Call to order and roll call: the meeting was called to order at 3:00 pm
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen
Town of Bayview – Don Jenicek, Mike Garnich. Town of Barksdale – John Nyara
City of Washburn – Mayor Mary Motiff, Tony Janisch
Several representatives of Fire and EMS departments.
Verification of proper public notice: Washburn Town Hall and Tetzner’s Dairy, Town website.
Public Comment: none
Discussion and possible action on a new 5-year Fire/EMS Contract with the City of Washburn: EMS calls are up do to aging population. 30% of the calls in May went unanswered by Washburn EMS due to lack of coverage. It takes 10 full time equivalent (FTE) staff to cover all the hours. We have 3 FTEs, 14 paid on call staff (POC). We need 28 POC to cover all the hours that the FTEs can’t. Year to date Washburn Area Ambulance Service has seen a 26% increase in calls compared to the same time last year. There isn’t enough money in the budget to hire more FTEs. There was a request for more budget information to be provided at the next meeting. The fire department shared their 15-year long range plan that shows when equipment will need to be replaced.
The next meeting is scheduled for July 9 at 3:00 pm at Washburn City Hall.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:00 pm.
Respectfully Submitted by
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Town Board Closed Session Minutes – April 21, 2026
Town of Washburn – Bayfield County
Meeting Minutes
Closed Session
April 21,2026
This is a special closed session meeting of the board for the purpose of discussing personnel issues.
Call to order and roll call: Scottie Sandstrom called the meeting to order at 6:30.
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen
Proper public notice was verified: Washburn Town Hall, Website, Tetzner’s Dairy
Seth made the motion to go into closed session. Matt seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Matt made the motion that we exit the closed session. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Matt moved to exit the closed session and Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Adjournment: Seth made the motion to adjourn at 6:53, Matt seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Town Board Closed Session Minutes – April 14, 2026
Town of Washburn – Bayfield County
Meeting Minutes
Closed Session
April 14,2026
This is a special closed session meeting of the board for the purpose of discussing personnel issues.
Call to order and roll call: Scottie Sandstrom called the meeting to order at 6:15 p.m.
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Seth Vasser, Mike Harvey and Vicki Thoen
Proper public notice was verified: Ashland Daily Press, Washburn Town Hall, Website, Tetzner’s Dairy
Seth Vasser made the motion to go into closed session. Matt Tetzner seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion Carried.
Seth made the motion that we exit the closed session. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Seth made the motion to adjourn and Scottie seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Closed session meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Town Board Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn
Town Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Scottie Sandstrom, Chair.
In attendance: Board members – Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen, Christina Eliason. Others: Mike Harvey (Road Superintendent), Sandra Raspotnik, Ellen Avol-Law, Sarah Beebe, Cyndee Marx, Bob Marx, Nori Schwenzfeier, Tim Schwenzfeier, John Carlson, Steve Tetzner, Ryan Vanderscheuren
Online: Wendy Stein, Kim Bro, Jim Park
Proper public notice was verified: Ashland Daily Press, Tetzner’s Dairy, town website, Town Hall
Public Comment: Sandy Raspotnik and Ellen Avol-Law reviewed the request from last month regarding resolution for transparency of voucher program cost with statement being added to the annual tax statements. Nori Schwenzfeier – commented on the dust ordinance, requesting resolution, stated the responsibility lies with the town. Cyndee Marx- stated that she is opposed to the school resolution. We need more info and accountability from school district regarding how many students are coming into district from other districts as well. Ryan Vanderscheuren – commented that he is opposed to the school district resolution to add voucher info on tax bill. Stated we should get the school budget annually and know where all of the money goes. Sarah Beebe – said that she is opposed to the resolution from the school board to add comment on tax bill. Christina Eliason – as a citizen not as a board member, stated she is opposed to the town board getting involved with the school board resolution. The Town should concentrate on Town business only. She feels we need all the budget numbers.
A motion was made by Seth to accept the agenda. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Seth made the motion to approve the minutes from previous meeting: Matt seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
School Board of Washburn Resolution- The board discussed their views on the resolution. Scottie stated that he is opposed to resolution and thinks the Town should be about town business. Matt said he received several messages about this topic and talked to Superintendent to hear both sides. He agrees with the town doing town business but understands both sides of the issue. The School District is considering a newsletter. Seth is for the resolution and thinks transparency is important. Scottie moved that we do not pass the resolution. There wasn’t a second to the motion. Seth made the motion to pass the resolution. Matt seconded the motion. 2 ayes, 1 nay from Scottie Sandstrom. Motion carried. The town will include a statement on the annual cost of the school voucher program on tax statements.
Update/Action on Town Dust Ordinance(s)/Town Roads Dust Mitigation -Seth moved to open the floor to town attorney John Carlson, Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Scottie presented the information from recent meetings and phone conversation with parties involved. The Board decided the following:
• The Town agrees to rescind Dust Mitigation Ordinance #2025-2. Seth made the motion that we rescind ordinance #2025-2. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
• The Town should adopt Ordinance #2026-1 Town of Washburn Fugitive Dust Ordinance for Unpaved Roads which includes posting signs with a speed limit of 15 mph for material hauling trucks. Seth made the motion that we pass Ordinance #2026-1. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Scottie made the motion that we purchase two road signs for the 15 mph speed limit. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
• The Town should invest in a salt/sand spreader for use of spreading Calcium Chloride. The estimated cost is $1800. Matt moved to purchase the spreader equipment. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
• Bob Olson has agreed to pay for two applications of Calcium Chloride per season. The Town will offer dust mitigation to other residents once costs are calculated. Currently expected to be $1.50/foot.
• The Town will exercise its prosecutorial discretion regarding the enforcement of the new adopted ordinance.
Reports:
Clerk: reported that 278 people voted during the Spring Election, April 7. 44 absentee ballots were issued, 38 were returned but one was rejected due to no witness signature, one was rejected because it was received on April 13. We had 60% voter turnout. Reminder that Open Book is scheduled for May 8 from 1:00 – 3:00 at the Town Hall. Board of Review is scheduled on May 20 from 6:00 – 8:00 at the Town Hall. See Notice posted on the website, at Tetzner’s Dairy and the Town Hall for guidelines. Annual Meeting is on April 21. Attended webinar for completion of Form CT Municipal Financial Report that is required by WI Dept. of Revenue.
Treasurer: looking into changing banks for our checking account, will present info at the May meeting. Presented current budget report. Will send out invoices for snow plowing next month. The bank accounts are reconciled for March.
Road Crew: Scottie recognized Mike for 20 years of service with the town. He was given a gift certificate to a local restaurant. He reported that things went well through the winter but it was a tough winter with ice accumulation and lots of snow. There are a lot of soft areas on gravel roads. Wants to buy a Box Scraper attachment for tractor. Lulich has one for $3000. Scottie made the motion to purchase the box scraper. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Back Hoe issues, Caterpillar was here again and the bucket works better now.
Chair: The DOT approved funding for Wannebo Road project at 69.72% of project cost. The project costs are estimated at $700,000 with $488,040 reimbursed by WIS DOT. Emmer Shields and Bob Anderson helped with application for the grant. Forrest Service mtg last Thursday. Scottie attended. Road Superintendents requested better cooperation and communication regarding logging and roads that need to be cleared/plowed. Mentioned Agenda items for Annual Meeting: board members will report on the past year, decide on driveway plowing for the future, change from electing Town Clerk and Treasurer to Appointment, Review pay levels for clerk, treasurer, and board members. Village Powers Resolution, Town indebtedness, open floor, and next Annual meeting April 20,2027
Seth made the motion to approve the reports. Matt seconded the motion All ayes. Motion carried,
Plan Commission – Kim Bro reported that Bayfield County is rewriting zoning policy and hosting public meetings. The one in our area is April 29 at Bayfield Town Hall at 6:30. Town Boards need to agree to be part of zoning, some zoning may change. We received a Driveway Permit request from Tracy DeFoe – need sketch of where the residence will be placed on property and will review in May if received in time. Share the road signs will cost $65 each.
Town Board Resolution for Transportation Funding as presented by the Wisconsin Towns Association: Seth made the motion to approve, Matt seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Scheduled Bid for West Engoe Road Double Chip Seal Project – request for bids will be in Ashland Daily Press Thursday, April 16 and Thursday, Apil 23. They will be reviewed at the May 12. Meeting.
Mowing the Landfill this Summer – Scottie talked to Duane Raspotnik to see if he would mow this summer. There is more to mow this year and he requested $700 for the summer. Scottie made the motion to move forward with Duane Raspotnik mowing the landfill for $700. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Items to be placed on future agendas:
Kelly Traczyk from WEDC to share her role in upcoming solar project
Open bids for Engoe Rd project
Schedule Road inspection
Authorize the payment of bills – After reviewing the bills, Seth made the motion to authorize payments. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Adjournment – at 9:10 Seth made the motion that we adjourn. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Clerk
Town Board Meeting Minutes, May 12, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn
Town Meeting Minutes – May 12, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Scottie Sandstrom, Chair.
In Attendance: Board members – Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Vicki Thoen, Christina Eliason, Seth Vasser (online) Others: Mike Harvey (Road Superintendent), Kelly Traczyk (WEDC), Ryan VanLanduyt (Bayfield Co. Energy Specialist), Mike Vavrus, Lance Twombly, Tom Cogger, Connie Cogger, Kim Bro (Plan Commission), Scott Sturgeon (Scott Construction)
Online: Wendy Stein, Jim Park
Proper public notice was verified: Ashland Daily Press, Tetzner’s Dairy, Town Hall, website
Public Comment: None
A motion was made by Matt to accept the agenda. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Matt made a motion to approve the minutes from the Closed Session meeting on April 14, the Town Meeting on April 14, the Closed Session on 4/21 and the meeting with the City of Washburn on 4/30. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Kelly Traczyk from Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, introduced herself and explained her role with the upcoming Town Solar Project. She is the Rural Sustainability Specialist. They are working on building a website and putting together a newsletter to keep board members informed about project.
Ryan VanLanduyt, Energy Specialist, Bayfield County Administrator’s Office stated that the project should start late June – early July. There will be an EV charger at the Town Hall as part of this project.
Reports:
Clerk: received Amendatory Ordinance No 2026-06 from the Bayfield County regarding changes to ATV designated routes. There will be a temporary amendment to the route on CTH C during the 2027 Hwy 13 road construction project from 8th Ave. to Big Rock Rd. The August town meeting is scheduled on 8/11 which is Primary Election Day. The board decided to change the meeting to August 8/18. Vicki has been working on updating the employee Handbook. The board agreed that we would prorate benefits for part-time employees based on the average hours worked. The Damage Assessment information from 4/17 storm was submitted to the County to receive emergency funding. The Town is responsible for removing debris from ditches and doesn’t have the equipment required. A quote was received from Tetzner’s Excavating and included in the information provided to the County. Matt made the motion to contract with Tetzner’s Excavating. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Mike will contact Joe Tetzner to schedule the work.
Treasurer: Our cash accounts are very healthy right now but there will be a spend down over the next few months. EMS/Fire contract payment of $73,997 hasn’t cleared the bank yet and the Truck loan payment of $30,514 is due in June. Snowplow invoices have been mailed out and 11 out of 16 invoices have been paid to date. Christina has check with other banks and found Northern State Bank will pay 3% on checking. Old National Bank doesn’t pay interest on our checking account. Scottie made the motion that we move the checking and savings accounts to Northern State Bank. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Road Crew: Mike reported that the new tractor is here and working well. Box Plate is on the tractor and doing exactly what Mike hoped. The Spreader for calcium chloride is here and the Share the Road and 15 MPH speed limit signs were delivered. He should be able to put up the signs in the next few days. The time clock no longer works. Vicki will research cost of new time clock. A culvert is needed on Dayton Road. Mike thinks 250 tons of gravel will cost around $6000. He reports that our new hire, Butch, is working out well and has been running grader.
Chair: Scottie reported that on 4/16 he attended the quarterly recycling meeting at Barksdale Town Hall. A new contract with Republic Services was signed. Waste Management was much higher. Dumpster Day is this Saturday, May 16. On 4/29 he attended a meeting with Kim Bro about some changes to zoning that the County is considering. On 4/30 there was a meeting about the Fire/EMS contract at the City Hall. The next meeting is June 4. The County asked that we change the name of the forest road known as Blueberry Rd to Forest Road 692 for clarity. The board didn’t object.
Approval of Reports: Matt made the motion to approve the reports. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Plan Commission-Kim Bro reported that the Plan Commission recommended that the board approve the driveway permit for Tracy DeFoe. Scottie made the motion that the permit be approved. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Kim attended the meeting with Bayfield County Zoning. The biggest change that is being proposed is regarding how land divisions are done. There is a massive change in the general zoning ordinance. Any comments from the town will need to be submitted to the county by July 26. Our town zoning is from 1970. Much of the area is zoned as agriculture but is wooded. We will need a process for updating the zoning map. He mentioned that he would like to move forward with the brochure for the Town of Washburn and have it posted on Website so it’s printable. Matt made the motion that we post it on the website. Seth seconded. All ayes. Motion carried.
Open Bids for Engoe Road Double Chip Sealing Project – We received two bids. Scott Construction – $39,185 includes patching the edges of the road with cold mix, double chip and seal. Fahrner – double chip and seal, bar seal broken edges, $74,144.
Matt made the motion that we move forward with Scott Construction. Seth seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Discuss and Decide on Roads to Bid for Crack Sealing this year – roads to consider for bids: (format for bid: ‘bid on normal crack filling and dip leveling’). The roads agreed on to be bid are: Church Corner Rd from Paulson Road to Wannebo (1 mile), Wannebo Road from Church Corner Road to Ondossagon Road (1 mile), Big Rock Road (1 Mile), W Maple Hill (1 mile), South Maple Hill from Church Corner Road to the top of the first hill (.3 mile), Scholl Road (.44 mile), for a total 4.74 miles. Scottie will get the request for bids posted in the Ashland Daily Press for 5/21 & 5/28.
Schedule Annual Road Inspection Tour – The road inspection will be Friday June 12 at 8:30 am.
Items to be placed on future agendas:
Open bids for crack sealing
Resolution to change Blueberry Rd to FR692
Authorize the payment of bills: after review of the bills, Seth made the motion to authorize payment of the bills. Matt seconded the motion. All Ayes. Motion carried.
Adjournment: Scottie made the motion for adjournment at 8:58 pm. Matt seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Vicki Thoen, Town Clerk
Town of Washburn Special Meeting Minutes – April 30, 2026
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Town of Washburn
Bayfield County
This is an initial meeting with the Town Boards of Barksdale and Bayview, and the City of Washburn, to discuss the framework for establishing a new 5-Year Fire/EMS Contract with the City of Washburn.
Call to order and roll call: the meeting was called to order by Mayor Motiff at 3:00 pm
In Attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen
Town of Bayview – Don Jenicek, Mike Garnich, Bill Bodin. Town of Barksdale – John Nyara
City of Washburn – Mayor Mary Motiff, Scott Rasmussesn (interim administrator)
Several representatives of Fire and EMS departments.
Verification of proper public notice: Town Hall, Tetzner’s Dairy, Town Website.
Public Comment – none
Mayor Motiff led discussion on developing a new 5-year Fire/EMS Contract with the City of Washburn. Suggestion was made to separate the Fire and the EMS contract into two separate contracts in anticipation of future changes to the EMS contract that will include County EMS support. It was suggested that all of the towns be included on the same contract instead of separate contracts. The City attorney will be consulted regarding this change. An equipment replacement plan to help towns plan for large expenditures was discussed. The fire department has a 5-year plan and will share it with the towns. EMS will provide information on the number of calls they respond to and how many they can’t respond to. Setting an annual limit on the amount the towns payments can increase was suggested.
The next meeting is scheduled for June 4 at 3:00 pm at Washburn City Hall.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:30 pm.
DRAFT – 2026 Annual Meeting Minutes
Town of Washburn
Bayfield County
DRAFT – Annual Meeting Minutes
April 21, 2026
Call to order: Scottie Sandstrom, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
In attendance: Scottie Sandstrom, Matt Tetzner, Seth Vasser, Vicki Thoen Christina Eliason, Mike Harvey, Connie Cogger, Tom Cogger, Wendy Stien, Bob Adams, Jim Miller, Bob Short, Teri Short, Cheryl Sandstrom, Kenneth Bro, Roy Settgas, Bob Marx, Cyndee Marx, Alex Prediger, Mike Vavrus, Lance Twombly, Dennis Weibel, Kathleen Russell. Online attendance was not available.
Verification of proper public noticed: notices were posted at the Town Hall, Ashland Daily Press, Tetzner’s Dairy
Acceptance of Agenda: Bob Short made the motion to accept the agenda. Seconded by Roy Settgas. All ayes. Motion carried.
Approve Minutes from previous Annual Meeting, April 15, 2025: Lance Twombly made the motion to approve the minutes of the last annual meeting. Mike Vavrus seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Reflections from the Board this past year:
Scottie, Chair: It was a challenging year with the turnover in clerk position. Vicki was appointed in January. Last year we applied for a grant for Wannebo Road project and received confirmation of approval. Our project was 1 of 88 that were approved. We will receive 69.72% reimbursement of $700K project. Crack sealing the roads in the town are an important focus. We have 27 miles of asphalt roads and need to work on 1 mile per year.
Matt, Supervisor: Stated it has been a learning experience as a new Supervisor. Scottie’s experience is very helpful. The Board works well together and makes the best decisions they can after doing due diligence. Supporting Mike with needs for road maintenance is imporant part of the job.
Seth, Supervisor: He appreciates Scottie’s experience and enjoys the WTA meetings. He has been learning a lot. It’s interesting and humbling with what a challenge it can be.
Christina, Treasurer: it was a challenge filling in with during clerk duties with the vacancies while still learning the treasurer position. She gave the financial report and explained the indebtedness. There is a new loan for $181,000 for the new Holland Tractor. Terms are 5 years at 4.25%. The first annual payment is scheduled for January 2027. Town is in good financial condition.
Vicki, Clerk: Has been in office for 3 months. The Spring Election went well. Appreciates the poll workers and their willingness to help with elections. There is a lot to learn and she is enjoying it.
Mike, Road Superintendent: Scottie mentioned that we recognized Mike for 20 years of service with the town at the April 14 Board meeting. Mike said he appreciates our current board and appreciates Scottie and his efforts with the Wannebo Rd project and grant applications.
Town Plowing Driveways in the Future: Last winter Mike had time to plow 4 driveways 11 applied for the service. At the WTA meeting they discussed the liability of the town plowing private property. Mike shared that he gets a lot of calls about when will driveways get plowed. Since we were understaffed this past winter Mike was telling people to call a private business since it would take him 4 or 5 days to get to the driveways. He suggests that we only do plowing on request and not for every snow event. Tom Cogger mentioned that when he was on the board years ago the same conversation happened. Private driveways should be plowed by private business. Roy Settgas mentioned that his driveway has been plowed by the town for 40 years. It’s a half mile long and didn’t think private businesses would have comparable equipment. This winter he used a private business and it worked well. Likes the idea of the town doing it as needed. Connie Cogger asked what surrounding towns do. Bayview doesn’t do private plowing, Barksdale hires private businesses to plow, Bayfield hires private business. Jim Miller likes the ‘on call’ idea as needed. Suggested providing list of private plowing businesses. Cyndee Marx made the motion that the Town no longer plow on regular basis but offer the service as ‘on call only’. Kim Bro seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Resolution for Re-Affirmation of Town Village Powers: the resolution states “The Town of Washburn, Bayfield County, Wisconsin, by a majority vote of the eligible electors voting at the Annual Town meeting with notice assembled and voting, resolves that action taken by the electors at the Annual Meeting of April 9, 1996 of the Town of Washburn authorizing the Town Board to exercise village powers, be re-affirmed by this resolution, as a resolution at the time of such authorization has not been able to be found in the Town records.” Kim Bro made the motion that we pass Village Powers Resolution 2026-3 reaffirming the exercise of village powers. The motion was seconded by Jim Miller. All ayes. Motion carried. (23 present, all ayes.)
Future Appointment of Town Clerk and Town Treasurer: Seth discussed reasons to appoint the Clerk and Treasurer: appointing allows the board to look outside of township to fill the position, it presents the possibility of joining with another town to share a clerk/treasure if needed. Scottie mentioned ability to interview and pick the best candidate based on qualifications. Longevity of clerk is helpful for the town. Appointed clerks and treasurers are becoming common. There were questions and comments regarding job descriptions and evaluations. If passed, The Clerk and Treasurer positions would not be on the ballot in April 2027. At that time the board will interview and appoint someone to those positions. Connie Cogger made that motion that clerk and treasurer be appointed in the future. Bob Marx seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Clerk & Treasurer Salaries and Board Meeting Per-diem (effective 4/2027): Since the Clerk and Treasurer positions will be appointed in the future, those salaries were not discussed. Vicki shared information obtained from surrounding towns to compare what they are paying their board members. After discussion, Tom Cogger moved that effective April 2027 we change the board pay from meeting per diem to an annual salary and set the salary for the Chair at $5000/year and the Supervisors $3000/year. Kathleen Russel seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried.
Open Floor for Electors: Tom Cogger: mentioned that he is involved in town planning. One of the things they have done is identified that our town character is important. Dark Skies Committee will apply to have our town designated as Dark Sky Town. Let him know if interested in joining committee. Meetings are held on Zoom and are held to 1 hour. Need to protect what we have. There are outdoor lights that are certified for Dark Skies. Will add information to the website.
Bob Short felt that when there are a lot of trucks hauling material to the landfill on West Maple Hill Road, that perhaps the trucks could be diverted to go back east on South Maple Hill instead of going back down West Maple Hill and creating more dust. Mike said that would be very detrimental to that asphalt road, and that’s why the trucks are instructed to go back down West Maple Hill.
Scottie mentioned that we were able to get clay from city and Bayview to add to the landfill cover and seeded. Should be improved. We will try to get more material when the city does the next phase of road improvements in 2027 to cover the rest of the landfill. City, town and Bayview used the landfill.
Lance Twombly asked about the solar project. We should have movement on it by early June. Kathleen Russell stated appreciation to the board for their work on the town’s behalf.
Next year meeting: 3rd Tuesday, April 20, 2027
Adjournment: Mike Vavrus made the motion to adjourn. Jim Miller seconded the motion. All ayes. Motion carried. Meeting was adjourned at 8:33.