The regular meeting of the Board of the Town of Arland was called to order by Chairman Maynard Hoff on Monday, May 12, 2014 at 8 PM at the town hall. All board members were present along with several residents.
Minutes of the previous meeting were read by Clerk Fall. Motion to accept by Robert Nelson, second by Brad Wolf. Motion carried. Treasurer Nelson gave a financial update. Motion to accept by Nelson, second by Wolf. Motion carried.
With no current highway maintenance employee on staff, update on highway work was given by both Nelson and Wolf, noting that road bans have been lifted. Discussion will follow later in the meeting agenda to review the position and consideration of replacement.
Sharon Masek from Superior Silica Sands gave an update on current mining operations at both LP and FLS mines as well as the work anticipated at the new Arland Dry Plant. Waiting on permits from DNR. She also discussed the plans for road repair. She presented the Road Agreement for 8th Ave (Arland Dry Plant) traffic. Questions were answered. Motion was made to approve the Road Agreement by Nelson, second by Wolf. Roll call results: Hoff – yes, Wolf – yes, Nelson – yes.
Midwest Frac update – all is going well currently, dealing with run-off issues. They have been doing some blasting. 8th Avenue has been holding up.
Greg Rayment from Greg’s Excavating in Almena gave a presentation on potential contracting with his company for highway maintenance in the Town of Arland. He currently does the Maple Grove and Beaver Townships.
Discussion followed and Greg answered questions and concerns. Public was allowed to present their concerns or support for this type of contracted work. Town of Arland has historically had an individual who is responsible for maintaining the roads and ditches.
Motion was made to hire Greg’s Excavating for 90 days to do general road maintenance by Wolf, second by Nelson. Motion carried.
Public comment followed with additional questions and concerns on town matters.
Discussion was given to vacant highway maintenance/patrol operator position. Motion was made by Nelson, second by Wolf to complete a job description for this full-time position. Motion carried.
A regular meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at 7:30 PM for the purpose of establishing the job description for the highway position.
Next regular meeting will be June 10, 2014 at 8 PM at the town hall.
Bills were presented for consideration of payment. Motion by Wolf/Nelson to pay all presented. Motion carried.
Reminder that the Board of Review will be held on Thursday, June 12th – Open Book 5-7 PM, with Board of Review 7-9 PM.
Town of Arland will host the May 19th WTA meeting at the Justice Center meeting room. This is joint with Towns of Almena and Vance Creek.
Motion made to adjourn by Nelson/Hoff. Motion carried.
Pamela Y. Fall, Clerk
(Minutes subject to approval)