TOWN OF WASHBURN

06/10/2025 Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order by Chair Scottie Sandstrom at 7:00PM.

Attendees were Scottie Sandstrom, Seth Vasser, Matt Tetzner, Christina Eliason, Fran Rechcygl, Jim Park, Trevor & Nori Schwenzfeier, Matt Lippo, Tom & Connie Cogger, Wendy Stein, Deputy Jonathan Kroll  – Mike Harvey absent from meeting due to a death in the family.

Chair requested that all stand to say the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion to accept the 6/10/2025 agenda was made by Matt Tetzner and seconded by Seth Vasser.  All ayes.

Motion to accept 5/13/2025 minutes was made by Seth Vassar and seconded by Matt Tetzner. All ayes.

Chair opened the meeting to the public comment:

Tom Cogger had questions regarding stop signs and requested an update on the replacement of them.  Scottie Sandstrom said the top half of signs is chipped off by the birds and that Mike Harvey had ordered a sheet metal bender to create a ‘sign canopy’ to prevent the birds from doing this.  Matt Lippo said that they had completed an inventory of damaged signs.  A solution should be available by the July 2025 meeting.

Deputy Kroll was expected to speak at this point but he had not yet appeared at the meeting due to other meetings.

Clerk Notes:  All new board members now entered into QuickBooks as well as reporting them to the state; QuickBooks does NOT have quarterly P/R options.  As all board members are now paid quarterly, this could become a bookkeeping problem.  All bills have been paid in full with the exception of the Engoe Rd project and are included on the activity list.  Chair will begin paperwork for reimbursement on Engoe Rd.  It was discovered that we are paying $300+/- per month during the summer for grass cutting around the town hall.

Garage Notes:  Engoe shoulder completed, fixed Larson’s driveway, brush-raked Nat’l Forrest Rd so that Mike can grade it.  Cutting of ditches was done along with some shop maintenance.  There is a trailer on Rustic Rd owned by Tom Cogger that he has agreed to move.  Some culverts have been completed and they’re slated to bring 2 big ones in on Church Corner Rd, along with ditching to control road runoff.

Planning Commission:  No activity.

Treasurer Notes:  We should have enough funds to operate through August 2025.  Snow plowing invoices went out.  It was suggested that we waive a $70.00 plow fee for the St Germain property.  She does not recollect calling for a plow and we have no proof that the plowing was done. It was also suggested that a better way to keep track of those services requests be developed.  This can be discussed with Mike Harvey at the next meeting. There are two savings accounts and 1 checking.  Suggests we should condense savings into one account and a checking account.  Will be addressed in the near future.

Mike Harvey phoned into the meeting.  Sheet metal bender not ordered yet, but will be shortly.  He will be getting cost on replacement stop signs along with some other state forest signs.  He’s got the Fahrner bid for crack sealing in his office.  Scottie will send Matt over to get it.

Sheriff’s Deputy, Jonathan Kroll, entered the meeting late. He introduced himself, and let us know that he is the liaison with the Town of Washburn, and that if there are any concerns or needs that we can contact him.

Chair Notes:  There will be an informational retreat on Wednesday, July16 with with Wisconsin Towns Assoc representative, Dale Houdek.  The meeting will be held at the town hall and will be considered a public meeting, so the agenda must be posted.  Solar update should be provided by July meeting.  Maple Hill landfill was visited.  A plan should be made to repair this as well as keep it mowed.  Road tour to be held 6/13/25.  Met with Delmore Consulting.  Should we use their services to help rate our roads.  Invited to virtual July meeting.

Motion to approve reports:  Seth Vasser motioned, Matt Tetzner seconded, all aye.

Discussion about records retention.  Bremer Bank to shred?  Ask for volunteers to go through existing records to review for destruction.

Open bids for Crack sealing:

1 – Fahrner Asphalt, Eau Claire, WI               $58,632.00

2 – Seal-Tech, Cambridge, MN                      $37,400.00

Motion to approve Seal-Tech bid was made by Seth Vasser and seconded by Matt Tetzner.  All aye.  Seal-Tech was awarded the bid.

Striping – .08/foot x 4 lines = .32/foot – amounts to approximately $15,300.  This would be for the new Wannebo Rd, the 251 west of Pajala past Long Lake, Ondossagon Rd from Wannebo Rd to Engoe Rd, Church Corner from C to Wannebo Rd, and Engoe Rd in conjuction with Barksdale.  They do ½ and we do ½.  No need to bid out.  Washburn County will do the striping.

Motion to accept striping made by Matt Tetzner, seconded by Seth Vasser.  All ayes.

Review of website and Facebook posting policies.  Jim Park to add Dog Tags, Snow Plowing.  He asked for $50.00 for doing same.

Motion to move to Open Floor made by Seth Vasser, seconded by Matt Tetzner.  All ayes.

Trevor & Nori Schengfrier created a Dust Mitigation Ordinance and brought it before the board.  It was decided that the dust issue on Hove Ln be resolved sooner than later and that resolution would be made by the July 8, 2025 meeting

Motion to move out of Open Floor made by Seth Vasser, seconded by Matt Tetzner.  All ayes.

Seth Vasser recommended an efficiency review of all buildings go on July agenda.  A pest control discussion should be tabled until Mike Harvey returns next month.

Mowing needs to be addressed for the landfill.  Buzz Raspotnik will do the job for $400.00.  Motion made by Seth Vasser, seconded by Matt Tetzner.  All ayes.

Cristine requested that we move the dust ordinance after the reports at the July meeting.

Motion to pay transactions made by Matt Tetzner, seconded by Seth Vasser.  All aye.

Motion to dismiss made by Seth Vasser at 9:05PM, seconded by Matt Tetzner.  All ayes.

Respectfully Submitted by

Fran Rechcygl, Clerk – Town of Washburn

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Town Meeting Minutes

April 8, 2025

Attendance: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Jim Park, Lynn Adams, Lance Twombly, Mike Harvey, Kim Bro, Seth Vasser, Jim Miller, and Mike Sherry. Virtually: Wendy Stein, Mike Vavrus, Brenda Rechel, Ron Rechel, and Steve Bade.

At 7:00 pm, the town meeting was called to order.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, and on the website.

Public comments:

• Steve Bade thanked the current board for their service and wished the best of luck to the new board.
• Scottie Sandstrom commented on Earth Day event at Presbyterian Congregational Church in Ashland on Saturday, April 26^th and how the town should have a similar event in two years after the solar project at the Town Hall and Garage has been completed.
• Sandy Raspotnik wished Scottie and Seth well for the next two years.

A motion to accept the agenda by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Scottie Sandstrom made a motion to approve the March minutes. Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Reports:

• Clerk report: 2025 Spring Election had 349 voters, 71 of which were Absentee. Good turnout. For town offices:
  • Chairperson: Scottie Sandstrom, 168. Sandy Raspotnik, 164
  • Supervisor1: Matthew Tetzner, 201. Supervisor2: Seth Vasser, 156. Alan Waite, 129, and Melissa Amrein, 102.
  • Treasurer: Christina Eliason, 286
  • Clerk, registered write-in: Francine Rechcygl, 29.
  • All sworn-in.
• Continuing: Form CT submitted today, will see if DOR accepts it. Should the current Chart of Accounts be changed to better match this form? Also, creating generic Project 1-3 accounts may not work depending on what they are and where they are in Chart of Accounts. Clerk asked about WI Towns Association roster form and dues due in June. Current clerk will fill out form and pay dues. Open Book will be on Friday, May 2^nd from 1-3pm at Town Hall and Board of Review will be on Monday, May 12^th from 6-8pm. Scottie, Matt, and Seth are registered in DOR for taking required BOR training on April 5^th. The affidavit is in the Assessment Book. Business Card is in current clerk’s name so it will have to be transferred over to new clerk and card number will have to be changed where it is currently on file. State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) reporting will be done tomorrow after a webinar. SAM.gov needs to be updated with new Chair and clerk.
• Treasurer report: Newsletter out. Need a volunteer for the next one. Meeting new treasurer on Friday after the Annual Meeting. PO Box key transfer, both parties must be in-person to sign. New Chair, treasurer, and clerk need to be added to bank accounts and remove current members. Financial reports sent out. $5 difference for Dog Licenses, still need to deposit. Scottie suggested a change to Budget format, and Jim stated that additional changes may be needed to see what works for new board.
• Road Crew report: Mike stated recent snowplowing resulted in a little gravel being pushed off road. Most culverts cleared. One still a problem on Lucia Rd. freezing up. Mike suggested re-ditching (and re-using as fill later) and replacing. Also, Church Corner N. needs a culvert replaced too. Motion to order two culverts (40×16 and 46×18) made by Scottie Sandstrom, seconded by Jim Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Mike continued about rut problems and fixing with cold mix from Northwoods Paving at $90/ton. $15,000 (6 loads) should do it. He also loves the new loader tires and hasn’t sold the old ones yet. Will drop price to $500/tire.
• Chair report: Thanked Scottie for work on Engoe Rd bid and working with Barksdale.
• Motion to approve reports made by Park and seconded by Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Plan Commission/County Zoning request: Kim Bro had two things to present. Driveway permit for Bridget and Forest Mann. Site visit last night. Some mitigation required to address seeps and spongy areas. Recommend approval with these measures. No fee since it is a shared driveway with an existing culvert. Motion to approve driveway permit for Bridget and Forest Mann made by Sandstrom, seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Next, Kim gave estimates from Copy That and Heart Graphics on printing the Comprehensive Plan, depending on how many copies. Motion to order 25 copies of the Comprehensive Plan made by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. Regarding County Zoning, Kim prepared a memo suggesting residents come to town first for permits, creating cluster lots on large plots to prevent dividing up, and a clear element addressing no development on or near steep slopes. Kim asked if he should send it in or if the board wanted to. Board stated that Kim could send it in.

Insurance Review: Mike Sherry, from Holden Insurance, presented and explained the new insurance policy. Town decided to increase coverage on contents in the garage building.

Sand Sifter: Motion to purchase sand sifter for $6,800.00 made by Scottie, seconded by Jim. All Ayes, motion carried.

Speed Limit on Church Corner Road: Motion to rescind 45 mph speed limit placed on Church Corner Road in the 1990s made by Jim Park, seconded by Scottie Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion passed.

Permission for Norvado work: Motion that clerk fill out consent form and send to contractor made by Sandstrom, seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Annual Meeting: Treasurer will print 25 copies of last year’s budget. Plan Commission Chair will give brief presentation about Comprehensive Plan.

Items to be placed on future agendas: Discuss board payment timeframes, Engoe Road bids, parameters for posting on website and Facebook, who will take over Newsletter, and reorganization.

Authorize the payment of bills: Motion to authorize payment of bills from March 12^th through April 8^th made by Jim Park and seconded by Scottie Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Annual Meeting is next Tuesday.

At 8:55 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Lance Twombly, Clerk

Town of Washburn Annual Meeting

April 15, 2025

At 7:00 PM the Annual Town Meeting was called to order by out-going Chair Sandy Raspotnik.  Chair acknowledged and thanked attendees (26).

First order of business was to approve minutes from last year’s meeting.  Kim Bro made a motion to approve minutes and Alex Prediger seconded.  Motion was approved by all ayes.

Second order of business was to introduce the new board.  This was performed by incoming Chair Scottie Sandstrom.

Third order of business was for the Board to give highlights of previous years’ projects and potential future projects.

1. Scottie Sandstrom discussed the successful completion of the Wannebo Rd project. Two miles of road were pulverized and repaved from Ondossagon Rd to Chequamegon Heights.  This was a BIL Grant where the federal government paid 80% and the Town paid 20%.  The project came in on budget.
2. An additional road project from Pajala Rd, west to Forest Road 251, past the entrance to Long Lake where the old pavement was ended. This was repaved and new gravel laid west of the new pavement.  This project was paid 100% by a grant secured by Sandy Raspotnik through the Forest Service.
3. In the fall of 2023, the Town secured a $55,000 grant through the Elred (?) program through the state. This was/is a shared cost with Barksdale Rd.  This pavement project will be on Engoe Rd From Bjork Rd east, for a length of approximately 7/10 of a mile.  The project is currently out for bids.  Submitted bids will be opened at the May 13, 2025 Town Meeting.  Project is expected to be completed by the end of summer, 2025.
4. A large culvert project is planned for north of County Road C on Church Corner Rd, 4 Corner Creek. The Town road crew has reported that this culvert has not been draining properly for awhile now.  The Town received a 50% grant through the county.  Work on this project is expected to begin early summer, 2025.
5. Broadband is now available through Norvado and Bayfield Wireless. Bayfield Wireless has been completed as regards the Town of Washburn. They have indicated that there will be additional infrastructure improvements.  Bayfield Wireless provides complimentary wireless service for the Town Hall and the Town garage.  Norvado continues to build their infrastructure to cover the eastern portion of our township.  This work is slated to occur in the spring of 2025 into the fall of 2025.

Supervisor Jim Park gave an update on the solar plan for the town.  The project is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2025.  They will begin to place solar panels in the field next to the town garage with battery storage and an electric vehicle (EV) charging station.  The town will be required to pay a certain percentage up front.  However, the tax credit would then reimburse the town for the cost of the project, resulting in a zero ($0) cost to the town.  This project is being considered a ‘demonstration’ project, and studies will be performed in our community and other communities to determine how it works.  The charging stations will be available for resident use.  Costs associated with any individual charge will be the resident’s responsibility.  The cost and manner of payment will be determined later, but it’s believed that a credit card would be the payment option.

Kim Bro thanked all the volunteers from last year for their input into the town plan.  He posted some sheets on the chalkboard for things that would be helpful to our town.  Some of these items are listed below but are not limited in their scope. He asked anyone that’s interested in volunteering their time sign the corresponding sheet.

1. Brochure for historic sites with maps – Trisha Miller volunteered to take on the creation of the brochure.
2. Make country roads safe and helpful for pedestrians and bicyclists, with improved signage, speed limit controls, signs regarding bike lanes, etc
3. Work to make our town a certified Dark Sky Town. Getting information out to the community about how lights can affect the night sky and what they can do to achieve our goal.
4. Promoting local farms. Get information about local producers out to the community via the website.

Sandy Raspotnik discussed the closed landfill on South Maple Hill.  The town is in the process of ‘capping’ it.  The responsibility for this project is shared with the City, the Town of Bayview.  This is being done with dirt/soil received from the paving of Hwy 13 in Washburn.  The new soil is being placed over the current clay cap which is beginning to sink.  The new soil still needs to be smoothed out.

Chair Scottie Sandstrom discussed the debt appearing under Accounts Payable on the Balance Sheet.  The truck loan and the Maple Hill loan do not show the actual balances currently due.  Maple Hill balance is actually $70,246.64 and will be paid in full this fall.  The Bremer loan for the truck has payments of $30,514.31 and will be paid off by 2028.  The reporting appearance is because of the way it is currently being reported in QuickBooks.  These two items will reviewed and corrected by Clerk Fran Rechcygl by the next meeting.

Steve Bade recommended that the Annual Meeting minutes be issued in “draft” form and posted.  He also stated his concern with the speed of vehicular traffic using the short cut from C (Church Corner) to Ashland.  Vehicles regularly travel at excessive speeds.  There is currently no posted speed signage on Church Corner or Wannebo Rd. Currently, unposted roads are 55mph.  He would like to see the speed limit changed to 45mph on Church Corner Rd, Wannebo Rd, and Ondossagon Rd to the Barksdale line at Engoe.  The county representative said they have a new traffic counter.  It’s use was offered to the town at no cost.  Sandy felt this matter was something that should be discussed by the new board.

Steve Bade made a motion for the safety and liability of the township that speeds are defined as 45mph from Cnty C (Church Corner Rd), Wannebo Rd, and Ondossagon Rd to the Barksdale line (Engoe Rd).  Seconded by Kathleen Russell.  Motion passed with 26 Ayes and 0 Nays.

Chair set next annual meeting on April 21, 2026 at 7:00PM

Mike Harvey made a motion to adjourn.  Kim Bro seconded.

Meeting adjourned at 8:07PM

Those Present:

Sandy Raspotnik                 Scottie Sandstrom              Jim Park

Matt Tetzner                        Seth Vasser                          Lynn Adams

Christina Eliason                 Lance Twombly                   Fran Rechcygl

Bob Short                             Terri Short                            Kim Bro

Becky Brown                        Cheryl Sandstrom               Mike Harvey

Steve Bade                           Bob Adams                           Jake Benson

Phil Freeman                        Terri Bade                             Trisha Miller

Nick Hays                              Ron Rechel                           Brenda Rechel

Alex Prediger                       Kathleen Russell                  Wendy Stein

John Eliason

Respectfully submitted by

Fran Rechcygl, Town Clerk

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Town Meeting Minutes

March 11, 2025

Attendance: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Jim Park, Lynn Adams, Lance Twombly, Mike Harvey, Matt Lippo, Kim Bro, Mike Vavrus, Seth Vasser, Matt Tetzner, and Deputy Sheriff Jon Kroll. Virtually: Wendy Stein, Alan Waite, Brenda Rechel, Ron Rechel, and Melissa Amrein.

At 7:04 pm, after some technical difficulties and a brief introduction by Deputy Kroll, the town meeting was called to order.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, and on the website.

Public comments:

• No comments.

A motion to accept the agenda by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Scottie Sandstrom made a motion to approve the February minutes. Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Reports:

• Clerk report: Levy Limit Worksheet Audit was approved by WI DOR. Renew Treasurer Bond with Horton, Holden, or let it expire? Chair stated to renew with Holden Insurance. Employee W2 corrected. Clerk asked to recognize employee with a day off for dealing with error and pointing out another. Motion that Matt Lippo be granted 8 hours of PTO made by Supervisor Park, seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. 2025 Spring Primary, February 18^th, had 126 voters. 2025 Spring Election, on Tuesday, April 1^st, has 53 Absentee Ballots sent out so far. In-person voting begins March 18^th and ends March 30^th. Town of Washburn Clerk position is the only vacant office in Bayfield Co. Clerk reminded all contestants on ballot to not linger at polling place while polls are open. Chief Inspector training on Sep. 8^th and 10^th, five town election officials will attend. Clerk has WI Town Law Forms book for templates. Clerk will attend training on how to fill out Form C/CT on March 17^th for $20 fee. Rural Insurance told town to ignore any Brightspeed Claim emails/letter until there is a lawsuit, which they will handle. Norvado Build-out contractor sent an email for permit approval, but there are two more (large files). Road Superintendent had a question about moving lines in future, would Norvado be liable? Clerk will get the other two emails and go from there. Board still supports the project. The Clerk would like to pay Board 2 or 3 times a year and the Plan Commission twice a year to keep Quickbooks monthly employee fee down. Sandstrom suggested waiting and asking the incoming new Board. Open Book will be Friday, May 2^nd from 1-3pm at Town Hall and Board of Review will be on Monday, May 12^th from 6-8pm. There will be at least one Board member with required training in April.
• Treasurer report: Paperwork sent (Financial reports). Reconciliation came out right. Taxes collected done for Treasurer, rest will go to County in July. Town will have them in August. Budget will have current month and year-to-date. Scottie had a question about Budget document location on website. Jim will look into moving it or making it easier to find.
• Road Crew report: Matt stated they are very busy. Issues with plow on 2015 truck were fixed, as well as the air tanks. New Loader tires make it a new machine, much safer. Matt thanked the board for approving the purchase. Plowing, sanding, road checks, shop work and steaming culverts. Hip boots ordered. Mowing should go better this summer after removing rocks. PTO: March 16^th-25^th. Mike requested to sell old loader tires for $700/tire. Still good pit tires. Motion for Mike to sell tires for best price made by Jim Park, seconded by Scottie Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. Mike had a question about plowing priority since three driveways did not get plowed because town hall had to be plowed out. Board set priority (as stated in policy) as roads, town hall, and driveways. The aggressive road maintenance has helped. Issue with Andrus Road driveway and ditch. 90 tons of salt ordered. Mike would like to purchase a screener or make one. Board told him to look into it more. Scottie mentioned the WTA training for Chair, Supervisor, and Road Crew in Wisconsin Dells.
• Chair report: City of Washburn applied for a new EMS Initiative Planning Grant. Locksmith from Hayward will open the town’s safe on Friday, March 14^th for $400.
• Motion to approve reports made by Sandstrom and seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Introduce Deputy Jonathon Kroll: Deputy Sheriff Jon Kroll, liaison officer for Town of Washburn, had to respond to a call in Red Cliff at the beginning of the meeting. So, he quickly introduced himself, stated there are now liaison officers for each town, and gave his phone number. He hopes to be back at another town meeting.

Plan Commission/Adoption of revised Comprehensive Plan: Chair Raspotnik thanked Plan Commission. Motion to adopt the updated Comprehensive Plan made by Park, seconded by Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. Ordinance signed by Chairperson and Clerk. Motion to appoint Caroline Twombly and Cindy Belanger to Plan Commission made by Supervisor Sandstrom and seconded by Supervisor Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Town Purchasing Resolution: Supervisor Sandstrom presented a revised copy. Motion to approve updated purchasing policy made by Supervisor Park, seconded by Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Discussion of Planned Summer Work: Wedging blacktop roads. Remove ruts, cold mix. Practice on McKinley, then Church Corner, and Nevers (work on hill too). Church Corner North needs gravel. Do this at time of planned culvert work. Gasperini also needs gravel work. Crack sealing and striping, prioritize better roads first. Engoe Road bid needs to go out soon. Scottie stated Emmer Shields has templates.

Annual Newsletter/Meeting: Current letter is long, seven pages, usually four. For the April 15^th Annual meeting, town board will do a quick overview and then open to the town residents.

Items to be placed on future agendas: Plan Commission, Holden Insurance-Mike Sherry, Road Work, Engoe Bid and list of equipment spreadsheet.

Authorize the payment of bills: Motion to authorize payment of bills from February 12^th through March 11^th made by Jim Park and seconded by Scottie Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

At 9 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Supervisor Sandstrom and seconded by Supervisor Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Lance Twombly, Clerk

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Town Meeting Minutes

February 11, 2025

Attendance: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Jim Park, Lance Twombly, Brenda Rechel, Ron Rechel, Bob Peterson, Nancy Peterson, Tim Schwenzfeier, and Bill Bailey. Virtually: Lynn Adams, Mike Harvey, Kim Bro, Wendy Stein, Alan Waite, and Amy Simpkins.

At 7:00 pm, the town meeting was called to order.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, on the website, and sent to Ashland Daily Press.

Public comments:

• Bob Peterson commented that he called Norvado and was told that the Town Chair told (Norvado) to go (build out fiber lines) to the north instead of west. Chairperson Raspotnik said that she did not say this and has not talked to Norvado. Asked Bob to call them about this and let her know. Chair will also call Norvado to check into this matter.

A motion to accept the agenda by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Scottie Sandstrom made a motion to approve the January minutes. Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Reports:

• Clerk report: Clerk now has access/control of townofwashburn@outlook.com email and Microsoft account. Still no access to townofwashburnwi@gmail.com (Google account). And limited access to old_clerk@townofwashburn.wi.gov, old emails. Levy audit by WI Dept. of Revenue submitted by sending information on town’s two loans. A W2 was sent out with an error and is pending correction by Quickbooks. They have 20 days (Feb. 17^th). 2025 Spring Primary on Feb. 18^th. Voting machines tested on Sat, Feb. 8^th. 31 Absentee Ballots out, so far. 2025 Spring Election is on April 1^st. Clerk asked for assistance filling out Nonmetallic Mining Permit (town’s sand/gravel pit). And then asked if the board had a plan for clerk replacement. Chair said there is no plan.
• Treasurer report: Financial reports submitted to board members. There needs to be a budget change with two DNR PILT fund accounts and combine into one. Taxes are done after Feb. 7^th grace period. Newsletter link sent out. Treasurer will return Feb. 26^th.
• Road Crew report: Mike stated 2015 plow truck is up and running. Loader tires: Mike called three places. One place did not seem interested. Others were Zifko’s and Al Dennis in Michigan. Zifko quote was $9,283.28 with an off-brand, unknown tire. Dennis from Mi was $10,340.00, but offered known, brand tires with better tread. Installation included in both quotes. Justification/explanation for new tires: current tires are not snow rated, used for pit work, and there have been three operators that have experienced sliding backwards on public roads. New tires will prevent this safety issue. Motion to purchase tires from Al Dennis (MI) for $10,340.00 made by Sandstrom, seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Equipment list to include attachments was handed out. Chair will create a digital list. Jim suggested adding pictures of each piece. Chair suggested adding mileage/hours and life expectancy for each as well.
• Chair report: Talked with Gerry Shutte from City of Washburn about landfill. Shutte stated they will level off clay that is there and will add rye seed. There might be free clay from new housing area project. Still plan on putting up a gate. Chair talked with Bob Olson about planned work this year. Not much. He’s “thinking about hanging it up.” He’ll let Mike know if there are any projects. Supervisor Sandstrom had a question about watering costs and sharing. Chair was asked if there could be a paragraph about each candidate (for Spring Election) on the website. Scottie said that Wisconsin Towns Association told him that town resources cannot be used for campaigning. Jim suggested leaving it up to the candidates. So, that is what board will do.
• Motion to approve reports made by Sandstrom and seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Plan Commission: Kim Bro stated that the draft Comprehensive Plan is on the website. For the March 6^th Hearing, commission will have a 20-minute presentation, with Town Board present. One more meeting is possible if revisions are needed. Kim will post the notices.

DOE ERA Grant presentation: Bill Bailey, Cheq Bay Renewables, and Amy Simpkins, muGrid Analytics, gave a handout and talked about the town’s upcoming solar project and overview of the entire area projects. 30 microgrid projects with 4 phases through 2030. Understand funding concerns, but business as usual until told not to execute. Funding has been obligated and allocated. Town’s simpler, more straightforward build-out likely in 2026, otherwise 2027. Total Project Cost: $122,718. Federal share: $96,582. Town share: $26,137. Elective Pay Tax Credit: $26,137. Bailey believes this is the highest risk for the town if the tax law is changed before project completion. The town will then have to pay $26k without tax credit reimbursement. Other issues were discussed about EV charging, payments, monitoring, and tax filing.

Review Insurance Coverage: Mike Sherry, from Holden Insurance, could not make it tonight. Be here in April to explain insurance.

Town Purchasing Resolution: Supervisor Sandstrom brought up current Purchasing Policy and some confusing wording. He will work on amending.

Norvado Fiber Optic Project: Sandstrom gave an update on Norvado Fiber Optic buildout in Bayview and Town of Washburn. Eastern side of town was Phase 1, completed. Norvado received funding for the rest of town buildout and will start this year, potentially as early as mid-May.

Notice of Disallowance of Payment claim from Brightspeed: A wire was damaged on Paulson Rd in February 2023 during normal snow removal operations around a culvert. Chair Raspotnik wrote letter denying claim. Rural Insurance, town’s insurance company at that time, will fight if there is a lawsuit. Filing deadline was missed from Brightspeed (120 days). Motion to send letter of disallowance to Brightspeed made by Supervisor Park, seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Posting Annual Meeting Minutes: Jim Park asked if town can post a draft copy of the Annual Meeting minutes a short time after meeting since they won’t be approved until next year’s meeting. Motion to post Annual Meeting minutes shortly after the meeting as a draft until approved made by Jim, seconded by Scottie. All Ayes, motion carried.

Annual Newsletter: Newsletter will include Road Updates, Internet options (Norvado and Bayfield Wireless), Budget form, Comprehensive Plan update, posting old minutes on website, solar project, and Spring Election. Articles in by March 11^th and newsletter sent out either March 18^th or 25^th. April 8^th is the town meeting and April 15^th is the Annual Meeting.

Items to be placed on future agenda: Purchase Policy Resolution and Newsletter.

Authorize the payment of bills: Motion to authorize payment of bills January 15^th through February 11^th made by Scottie Sandstrom and seconded by Jim Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

At 8:30 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Lance Twombly, Clerk

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Town Meeting Minutes

January 14, 2025

Attendance: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Jim Park, Lynn Adams, Lance Twombly, Matt Lippo, Kim Bro, and Ronald Michael. Virtually: Wendy Stein and Alan Waite.

At 7:00 pm, the town meeting was called to order. Mike Harvey could not attend.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, on the website, and sent to Ashland Daily Press.

Public comments:

• Ronald Michael commented that his taxes went up 200% for the Town of Washburn and wanted to know why. Chair Raspotnik explained that the town has added the two loan payments (2021 Plow Truck and South Maple Hill Road Project) to town levy. S. Maple Hill loan will be paid off this year so it will not be included on Levy Limit Worksheet for next year. Previous levy (second lowest in county, only above Village of Mason) is not enough to cover rising costs for EMS/Fire, wages, road maintenance, etc. Budget will be posted on website.
• Lance Twombly suggested that guest speakers at town meetings have a time limit, as well as other agenda items, to keep meetings moving along.

A motion to accept the agenda by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Scottie Sandstrom made a motion to accept the minutes for the December 10^th meeting. Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Reports:

• Clerk report: Quickbooks Live Assisted Bookkeeping was not very helpful so it was canceled. W2s printed and mailed or otherwise distributed. Created a business account with tax exemption at O’Reilly’s in Ashland. Business card now on file at Tamarack Health Ashland Medical Center for DOT drug screen lab work since payment is due at time of visit. There is now a February 18^th Spring Primary for the State School Superintendent. Spring Election will be on April 1^st. Open Records request for candidate information on file replied to via email.
  • Candidate list on Spring General Election ballot:
    • Chairperson (1): Sandra J. Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom
    • Supervisor (2): Matthew Tetzner, Alan Waite, Seth A. Vasser, Melissa Amrein
    • Treasurer (1): Christina Eliason
    • Clerk (1): No candidate
• Treasurer report: Choice Title asked if there were any special assessments. No, there are none. Financial packet given out to board members. Taxes collected so far are reflected on Profit and Loss. Budget posted on website will be year-to-date for that month.
• Road Crew report: Matt gave update on issues with 2015 truck. O’Reilly’s is more competitive in price than Napa. Snowplowing is going well. Overtime on Sunday to plow for storm. Got a new Milwaukee grease gun after issues with other one. Loader needs better tires. Will get a quote. Chair stated that Mike needs to track budget for Maintenance/Parts. Might make this a policy. Let board know about high-cost parts and how much.
• Chair report: No first-aid kits in town equipment so Mike ordered some. There should be tourniquets too. Looking into getting first aid training through County Nurse. Chair will ask other towns. Asked clerk to register Sandy and Scottie for Wisconsin Towns Association Spring Conference in Cable since Board of Review training will be offered. Chair is aware only one of them will be on new board. It may be possible for other registration to go to a new supervisor. Bill Bailey will be at next month’s meeting.
• Motion to approve reports made by Sandstrom and seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Plan Commission: Kim Bro stated that landfill bill came in for monitoring and repairing cap. Over $40k and town paid 11%. It is half done. Current clay can be spread around better by a smaller machine to cover landfill. Needs to be re-vegetated. City is considering installing a gate instead of current rocks. Chair stated that there will not be new clay until 2026 with second part of City of Washburn’s road project. Will talk to city. The Comprehensive Plan draft will be ready by Feb. 4^th. Minimum 30-day review before 7 pm March 6^th Public Hearing at Town Hall. Public Hearing Notice sent to Ashland Daily Press for an end of month printing. Town Board will be at hearing but will not conduct town business. Plan finalized in February and may need to be tweaked after March hearing. Final plan approved by board at town meeting. Kim stressed how important it is to follow legal requirements since county and residents will have to follow once approved.

Development of Policy Book: Topic moved to next meeting.

Purchase a phone for clerk: Bayfield Wireless said that VoIP calls can be forwarded to a cell phone, but not texts. Will leave this up to the next clerk. Supervisor Sandstrom suggested revisiting this issue in March.

Mileage rate: Motion to follow federal government mileage rate made by Scottie, seconded by Jim. All Ayes, motion carried. 2025 rate is 70 cents/mile.

Clerk salary: Supervisor Park made a motion to increase clerk salary to $10,000/year, effective in April. Seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Previous (Old) minutes placed on website: Jim will work with clerk to scan minutes. Plan on doing one year/week. One year of minutes will be one document.

Items to be placed on future agenda: Policy book, landfill, solar, equipment review, town insurance (Stay with Holden? Yes), and annual newsletter (Lynn will do).

Authorize the payment of bills: Motion to authorize Check Details for December 11-January 14 made by Scottie Sandstrom and seconded by Jim Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

At 8:54 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Supervisor Sandstrom and seconded by Supervisor Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Lance Twombly, Clerk

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Town Meeting Minutes

December 10, 2024

Attendance: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Lynn Adams, Lance Twombly, Mike Harvey, Steve Bade, Tim Schwenzfeier, Nori Schwenzfeier, Kim Bro, Eric Adams, Charly Ray, and Jan Lee. Virtually: Jim Park, Wendy Stein, Alan Waite, and Kate Stolp.

At 7:00 pm, there were technical issues with online meeting.

7:09 pm, issues resolved and meeting called to order.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, on the website, and sent to Ashland Daily Press.

Chairperson Raspotnik introduced Charly Ray and Jan Lee from the Bayfield County Board.

Public comments:

• Steve Bade read a statement. Thanked the board for their service and apologized for last month’s meetings comments. Stated, “We agree on more than we disagree.”
• Nori Schwenzfeier expressed concern about dust mitigation on Hove Lane. Cited Wisconsin statute regarding “fugitive dust,” who is responsible and enforcement.
• Tim Schwenzfeier added salt is ineffective with mass hauling on Hove Lane. Projects should take responsibility and cover costs. Mike Harvey added that Northwoods Paving takes responsibility for a pit road in Highbridge.

A motion to accept the agenda by Supervisor Sandstrom and seconded by Supervisor Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Scottie Sandstrom made a motion to accept the minutes for the November 12^th meetings. Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Reports:

• Clerk report: Levy Limit Worksheet and Statement of Taxes submitted to WI Department of Revenue, with help from Lynn Divine. Nomination papers due by 5pm on Jan. 7^th, 2025. Clerk needs a dedicated phone number, either a line that transfers to a personal number or a town government cell phone. Personal number should not be posted for elections, in newspaper, on website, etc. Board should consider increasing clerk salary at least $1,000/year. QuickBooks is selling their Plus package which can do budget tracking for $99/month, first three months half-off. Also, they offer Live Assisted Bookkeeping for $50/month, first three months 50% discount. Board said no to Plus but can try Bookkeeping for $25 for first month.
• Treasurer report: Financial reports sent out to Board members. Reconciling issues that required a journal entry for $27 over. Taxes going out. Higher. Chippewa Valley CD is $126,000 and matures on Jan. 4^th. Can be renewed at 4.89%. Board approved renewing CD.
• Road Crew report: Mike reported that window in loader was replaced for $600 and will not submit an insurance claim. Looked at 10 culverts, basically, the same. Sandy requested a priority list on these culverts. Mike continued stating that the rocks were put back at the landfill, no gate. Snowplowing operations have started. 2015 plow truck still having issues. Hove Ln update: Hoffman Construction will come back in spring to fix. This was approved by Mitchell from DOT. Good to follow up and the town should try to prevent this in the future.
• Chair report: Nothing to report. Scottie added that Project Prosperity, the large solar project in Bayfield County, is in the design phase and will be looking for public input in January.
• Motion to approve reports made by Sandstrom and seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Welcome County Board members Charly Ray, County Supervisor District 4, and Jan Lee, Bayfield County Board member. Introduced themselves and gave an update on the Zoning Comprehensive Plan (being a hot topic with zoning code revisions), Emergency Medical Services (on verge of collapse), and changing the designation of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore to National Park (local areas not in support). Zoning survey will be on town’s website.

Plan Commission-Public Participation Plan: Kim Bro requested the Board approve the Public Participation Plan resolution. Also asked for Facebook users to like and share the Town of Washburn Photo Challenge and spread the word. Public Hearing will be on Thursday, March 6^th, 2025. Motion to approve Public Participation Plan Resolution (2024-1) made by Jim, seconded by Scottie. All Ayes, motion carried. Resolution signed by Chair, Sandy Raspotnik, and Clerk, Lance Twombly.

Dust Abatement on Hove Lane: Sandy had a conversation with Bob Olson and there’s a new product called Durablend that is similar to calcium chloride with less leaching. More expensive. Discussion on calcium chloride, Durablend, and beet juice. City of Washburn will let Mike use their sprayer to try beet juice. Mike is researching spraying equipment for town. Scottie made a motion to open floor, Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried, floor open for discussion. Out of this discussion, the consensus is to purchase town equipment, communicate with Bob, and spray water. And try to pass this cost onto sand pit customers. Supervisor Sandstrom made a motion to purchase a pump and duckbill sprayer for up to $2,000 and to set up a meeting in March with Bob Olson to discuss work plan. Supervisor Park seconded, all Ayes. Motion carried. Sandstrom then made a motion to close the floor, seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried, floor closed.

Development of Policy Book: Chair commented that red writing (text) in draft are ideas and posed the question: “Who do we serve?” Topic moved to next meeting.

Approval of Road Crew Contracts: Jim Park made a motion to approve Road Crew Contracts, seconded by Scottie Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried. Scottie then made a motion to begin the new pay scale on December 28^th, 2024, with a second from Jim. All Ayes, motion carried.

Previous (Old) minutes placed on website: Moved to next meeting.

Items to be placed on future agendas: Policy book, archiving minutes on website, clerk salary, clerk phone, and solar project.

Authorize the payment of bills: Motion to approve Check Details for Nov. 13-December 10 made by Scottie Sandstrom and seconded by Jim Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

At 9:15 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Supervisor Sandstrom and seconded by Supervisor Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Lance Twombly, Clerk

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Budget Hearing and Meeting of Electorates Minutes

November 12, 2024

Attendance: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Lynn Adams, Lance Twombly, Mike Harvey, Steve Bade, Tim Schwenzfeier, and Nori Schwenzfeier. Virtually: Jim Park, Wendy Stein, Brenda Rechel, Ron Rechel and Kathleen Russell.

At 7:00 pm, the Budget Hearing was called to order by Chair Raspotnik. Road Crew member Matt Lippo could not attend.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, on the website, and sent to Ashland Daily Press.

Chairperson presented proposed budget in a new format. Treasurer displayed 2025 Budget sheet on the screen. Chair stated that the town does not have all levy information, but what comes in, goes out. Sandy then explained the increased town levy to cover snowplow truck and South Maple Hill loan payments and then the rest of the budget. Supervisor Sandstrom explained Gravel/Blacktop item in regards to the Wannebo Road Project and how the town came in under budget with efficiencies and cost savings from Northwoods Paving.

There were no questions or comments.

At 7:24, Scottie made a motion to adjourn the Budget Hearing, seconded by Jim. All Ayes, motion carried.

Then Chair Raspotnik called to order the Meeting of Electorates.

Chair requested from electors a motion to approve the Budget and Levy for 2025. Wendy Stein made a motion to approve the 2025 Budget and Levy, with a second from Mike Harvey. All Ayes, No Nays or objections. Motion carried.

Mike next made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Lynn Adams seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Town Meeting Minutes

At 7:27, monthly town meeting called to order.

Meeting notices were posted in the two public places, on the website, and sent to Ashland Daily Press.

Public comments:

• Tim and Nori Schwenzfeier requested the Board make a decision on dust abatement on Hove Lane to prevent future, unlivable conditions that occurred this summer.
• Wendy Stein recommended the town put up a gate at the landfill.
• Steve Bade commented on the town minutes regarding his handout not being scanned into them and the time it took to post the September minutes. He stated the Board has the authority to post weight limit signs and enforce them on town roads. He then commented on the town’s culvert construction and condition of Church Corner Road. He noted cold mix patch work is nice.

A motion to accept the agenda by Supervisor Park and seconded by Supervisor Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

Jim Park had two corrections for October minutes. Scottie Sandstrom made a motion to accept the corrections and the minutes for the three Special Meetings (Oct. 23, Oct. 30, and Nov. 11). Jim seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

Chair report: Nothing to report.

Road Crew report: Mike stated there are weight limit signs on McKinley, Paulson, Wannebo, and FR251 roads. Posting did lessen impact. However, the town does not have the equipment to weigh trucks. Supervisor Park added that even if town had authority to issue citations there is no way to prove trucks are over-weight. There is no money in budget for Church Corner Rd. And Church Corner is still getting used due to County Hwy C being closed in the City. The county has bigger and better equipment to put in culverts. Culverts installed by town need to settle over time. County will compact culvert on Church Corner next year. Mike rode with Mitch from DOT to inspect roads after heavy use from city construction. Hove Ln is really hard packed now and wide. No ditches. The fill will be removed, ditches seeded and mulched, and two culverts fixed and cleaned out. Mike will follow up. On South Maple Hill Road rocks were removed and rough edges cleaned up by adding gravel. Water pump on tractor went out; new one ordered. Okay to purchase motor oil for $2500? Yes. Road to landfill will be closed by putting large rocks back. A motion by Supervisor Scottie and a second by Supervisor Jim to approve road crew report. All Ayes, motion carried.

Clerk update: 2024 General Election on Nov. 5^th went well. Total of 113 Absentee Ballots (mail, email, online, and in-person), only two not returned. 401 overall voters. Folded absentee ballots caused a few paper jams in DS200 tabulator but cleared with no issues. Great election team. FOIA request for Election Day Registrations, sent to County since they have this information. Fleet card used at Napa for a fuel filter. Charged tax but should be corrected for next time. Working on Levy Limit Worksheet. A motion by Jim Park and seconded by Scottie Sandstrom to accept the clerk’s report. All Ayes, motion carried.

Treasurer report: Snowplow forms ready for Mike. Numbers are way down. Mike said that these can be done in a day. Bremer CD was reduced by $12,000 to bring it down to $100k and placed into an 8-month CD, double interest. $12k placed in savings account. Chair asked to keep track of maturity dates for CDs. Financial reports to Board and Clerk. A motion by Jim and seconded by Scottie to accept the treasurer’s report. All Ayes, motion carried.

Plan Commission: Kim Bro not at meeting, nothing to add.

Dust Abatement: The town is considering purchasing applicator equipment to spray beet juice, ranging from a few hundred dollars to $11,000. More expensive equipment is faster, more efficient and only requires one person. It can also be used to water roads for grading and for calcium chloride which town does not want to use. Mike will see if there is any equipment in the area to test. He also has personal equipment he can test for a day project next spring. Mike will also check to see if the town could potentially pay someone to spray roads. Supervisor Park asked if commercial operators causing the dust could share the cost? They could charge the customer for dust mitigation. No decision was made and will be placed on next month’s agenda.

Appointing Election Officials: Sandstrom made a motion to approve Ruth Hartzell, Cheryl Sandstrom, Hallie Sandberg, Sarah Tetzner, Christina Eliason, Caroline Twombly, Lynne Borchers, and Mike Vavrus as Election Officials for next year, seconded by Park. All Ayes, motion carried.

Adoption of Budget and Levy for 2025: Jim made a motion to adopt the Budget and Levy for 2025, Scottie seconded. All Ayes, motion carried.

New Computer: No, Treasurer will keep her computer.

Policy/Procedures: Chair sent out. Will discuss next month.

Items for future agendas: Dust abatement, approve employee contracts, discuss policy/procedures. Supervisor Park asked about digitizing old minutes. Volunteers?

Authorize payment of bills: Motion to approve Check Details for Oct. 9-Nov. 12 made by Jim Park and seconded by Scottie Sandstrom. All Ayes, motion carried.

At 8:36 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Supervisor Sandstrom and seconded by Supervisor Park. All Ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Lance Twombly, Clerk

Town of Washburn

Bayfield County

Special Town Meeting

November 11, 2024

Present: Sandy Raspotnik, Scottie Sandstrom, Mike Harvey, Matt Lippo, and Jim Park (virtually). Lynn Adams and Lance Twombly arrived later.

At 1:30 pm, special meeting called to order.

Agenda posted in two public places and on website.

Supervisor Sandstrom made a motion to go into closed session, seconded by Jim. All Ayes, motion carried.

Board conducted employee evaluations and finalized contracts.

Mike and Matt were released.

At 2:40, Supervisor Park made a motion to come out of closed session, seconded by Scottie. All Ayes, motion carried. Treasurer and Clerk arrived.

All members worked on finalizing the budget for tomorrow’s meeting. Levy limit for town was adjusted to cover loan payments scheduled for 2025.

At 4:00 pm, Scottie made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Jim. All Ayes, motion carried.

Lance Twombly,

Clerk