2009 Association Meeting Minutes
September 5, 2009
The meeting of Pequaywan Lakes Association was called to order by President Phyllis Mead at 10:01 a.m. with 25 members present. The minutes of the August 8 meeting had previously appeared on the website and were distributed at the meeting. Motion made by Phil Erickson, seconded by Lorene Sorlien to approve minutes. Motion passed.
Treasurer's report by Jim Guldseth: Balance 8/8/09 - $1,383.19. Income (dues) - $200. Expenses $48.90 (copying). Balance - 9/5/09 - $1,534.29. In addition there is a CD of $11,532.01 maturing 7/24/10 and another CD of $5,634 to be reinvested in three days. Motion made by Ray Barnes to approve treasurer's report, seconded by Marialice Arndt. Motion passed.
OLD BUSINESS: Judy Strom indicated a group will meet on Monday, Sept. 7, at fire hall meeting room to prepare a response to a letter from the DNR concerning the association's resolution about a public access to the lakes. Articles have appeared in Duluth News Tribune and Star Tribune about the concern about exotic invasive species entering Mn. lakes. (Click here to read) Phil Erickson indicated there should be a concern not only about boats but also about boat trailers unloading boats at public/private landings.
History Committee: The committee continues to look for historical material/pictures concerning the lakes and also historical information/pictures on individual lake cabins. Send information (preferably by electronic means) to Kathy Sluka (ksluka@yahoo.com) or Phyllis Mead (spmead@frontiernet.net).
NEW BUSINESS:
Loon report by Lorene Sorlien: Big Lake - one pair nested on NE side of island. Two eggs found in water near nest. Recovery of eggs will be attempted to discern if possible at what stage eggs were when abandoned. Largest group of loons- 11. Little Lake - No known nesting by the pair of loons on the lake. We are among the 32 lakes in St. Louis County actively involved in the loon survey.
Water Clarity report by Scott Mead: Big Lake - 5 tests to date in 10-11 ft. range. Little Lake - Four tests in 16-20 ft range.
Water quality testing: Water samples taken on both Big and Little Lakes and submitted to RMB firm for analysis. Six tests wil be done each summer and submitted to the firm for analysis to establish baselines for future years.
Lake quality: Judy Strom indicated more and more people working on establishing/maintaining natural shoreline which acts as a good buffer for water runoff, which can be a major source of pollution, and also discourage geese from parking on your lawn.
Binder project: Phyllis Mead said a binder is being prepared for members and new property owners concerning useful information/resources about the area.
Trash Day/Brush day report by Dick Arndt: Dumpster was filled by 11:15 a.m. Unfortunately three people had to be turned away because dumpster was full. There were 21 particpants - income of $185.00 in fees and $13.00 Misc. Total - $198.00. Total cost of dumpster was $581.80. Thanks to volunteers: Bob McDonaugh, Scott Mead, Jerry Rosdahl, Ted Granquist, Arnie Johnson, Lorene Sorlien, Tom Easty, Ross Gustafson, Jack Rinne. Thanks to Phyllis Mead for coffee/cookies.
There were 33 participants in spring brush day and 21 in August for total of 54. Thanks to Scott Mead and Phyllis Mead for bars/coffee. The association thanked Dick Arndt for overseeing these projects. Motion made by Dick Arndt, seconded by David Olson to give Ross Gustafson and Chris Ringsred $15.00 each for gas involved in skidster crush.
Roadside cleanup: Will be held Tues., Sept. 8. Meet at firehall at 9 a.m.
Thanks to Barb Granquist and Deb Pomroy for treats at meeting.
Lorene Sorlien will make calls to DNR about procedure for possible refurbishing of the Smoky the Bear sign on Cty 44.
Motion to adjourn by Phil Erickson, second by Kathy Sluka. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 10:43 a.m.
Respectfully submitted: Ted Granquist, secretary
AUGUST 8, 2009
The meeting was called to order by First Vice President Dick Amdt. There were 34
members present. The minutes of the July 1 1,2009 meeting had appeared on the association website and distributed at this meeting. Kathy Sluka motioned to approve, Cameron Johnson seconded - motion approved.
Jim Guldseth presented the treasurer's report. Last month's the balance was $1,475.91. Income was $369.88. Expenses were $462.60. The ending balance is $1,383.19. One CD was renewed on 7/24 for 12 months with Western National Bank. The rate is 2.05% and the balance is $1 1,553.01. The 2nd CD matures on September 8,2009. Current rate is 3.10% with US Bank. The balance is $5,635.62. Ron Sluka motioned to approve, Phil Erickson seconded - motion approved.
OLD BUSINESS
Lori Gherna presented a report on the association picnic held Saturday, July 25. The Inn was very accommodating and Lori felt things went very well. The children enjoyed the games. The food was good although there was a shortage of hamburgers. The expenses totaled $124. One area to improve on - there were people inside and outside - hard to keep everyone together. Ron Sluka stated the Snowmobile Club has a tent with sides that could be used next year. Another suggestion was to have every one introduce themselves.
Judy Strom mentioned there is an online survey available that we could use so members could provide suggestions and feedback to try in order to get more people to attend. Thanks to Lori, Kristie and April for their efforts.
NEW BUSINESS
Special thanks to Becky Larsen & Marilyn Bamford for providing the treats.
Joel Bamford will do a presentation regarding sun exposure and skin conditions after today's meeting.
Judy Strom said a resident on the Big Lake was charged by the DNR after shooting toward the lake at a goose. This is not only a safety hazard it is also illegal to shoot geese (or any animal or bird) out of season or so close to cabins. This kind of action is also an illegal discharge of a firearm and could result in additional charges.
Committees:
History Committee: Kris Larsen has found some historical data for the lakes. The committee is also looking for material, from residents, to start working on this project this winter. This material would be returned once information is compiled. It also would be nice to have residents write up historical information regarding their individual properties. This can be emailed to Kathy Sluka (ksluka@yahoo.com) or Phyllis Mead (spmead@frontiernet.net)
Lake Quality Committee: Water clarity testingwas done for both lakes. The Big Lake's level was 10 feet and the Little Lake was at 14 feet on July 29. Testing is also being done on the water quality of both lakes and initial results will be reported at the September meeting. (Last year the clarity on the Big Lake was 7.5 around the same time.) Phil Erickson said a sample taken in front of his place a few years ago tested positive for EColi.
Safety/Water craft/Fire Committee: Judy Strom said a resident had asked that the Association consider making the last channel in the Little Lake a No Wake zone as it is very shallow and the small opening beyond it is a loon nesting area. A motion was approved to investigate whether the DNR would put up a sign. Ray Barnes motioned to approve and Rick Johnson seconded. Motion approved.
Service Committee: Trash Day is August 15 from 9 AM to 1 PM. $5 for trunk load and $10 for trailer or pick-up. You must be an association member by Saturday, August 8 to participate. There are enough volunteers available. Yard Waste Day will be Saturday, August 29 - 10 AM to 1 PM.
Gordy Larsen, Scott Mead and Jerry King are updating and cleaning township signs.
Misc.
Deb Pornroy reported that 200 seed head weevils were released on the West Branch Road and Hwy 44 on the north end of Pequaywan Township to fight the spotted knapweed. This will take some time to see results - but there have been good results in other areas.
Proposed Public Access: There is a statewide organization of lake associations called Minnesota Waters that will be approached to help with the idea of halting new public accesses until the issue of the spread of invasive species is solved by the DNR. Phyllis Mead has been in contact with the Executive Director. There will be an article, within the next couple of days, in the Duluth News Tribune about this situation. Dan Dexter has also spoken with other media outlets, politicians, and an environmental director about this. There has been no response from the DNR.
Loon Report: There were 3 spotted on the Little Lake and 6 loons together were seen on the Big Lake.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Election was held for two positions, each has a two-year term.
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT: Becky Larsen nominated Dick Amdt.
SECRETARY - Marilyn Barnford nominated Ted Granquist.
Both nominees were elected unanimously
Deb Pomroy and Ray Bames will provide the treats for the September 5 meeting.
Ray Barnes made the motion to adjourn. Kathy Sluka seconded. Motion approved.
Lin Johnson (filling in for Lome Sorlien Secretary)
JULY 11, 2009
The meeting was called to order by President Phyllis Mead. There were 35 members present. The minutes of the June 6th, 2009 meeting had appeared on the association website and distributed at this meeting. Phil Erickson motioned to approve. Seconded by Ted Granquist. Approved.
Phyllis Mead presented the treasurers report because of Jim Guldseth’s absence. Last month the checkbook balance was $1820.79. Income from membership was $230.00. Expenses were John Lucia $255.00 for door repair on the Fire Hall, June speaker mileage $50.00, Pequaywan Township sign planting $269.88 for a total of $574.88. Checkbook balance is $1475.91. The CD’s remain the same with one maturing on July 18 and the other in September. Phyllis asked that the treasurer's report not be approved as it was taken by phone.
OLD BUSINESS
Association annual picnic: Lori Gherna reported that the annual picnic will be held at the Inn on Saturday, July 25th . Games for the children will be at 3:00 p.m. and eating will be at 4:00. This was later changed to games ast 4:00 and eating at 5:00. Burgers and brats will be furnished. Bring side dishes and deserts to be shared. The committee is looking for entertainment. The picnic is for association members only.
Proposed public access: Phyllis Mead thanked Judy Strom for all the work she has done to provide the needed information about the DNR’s inquiry about buying property on the two lakes for public access use. The lake association is concerned about environmental issues. Members were asked to put pressure on the DNR at all levels by writing and calling them and telling them we don’t want invasive aquatic species in the lakes. Judy Strom read the previously drafted resolution.
WHEREAS, the Department of Natural Resources has expressed a desire to create a public boat access on Lake Pequaywan
WHEREAS, Lake Pequaywan is currently one of the most pristine lakes in the state
WHEREAS, the Pequaywan Lakes Association is dedicated to preserving the water quality of Big and Little Pequaywan lakes and has been developing programs to that end.
WHEREAS, such a public boat access would cause irreversible harm to the water quality of Lake Pequaywan and the lakes downstream from it, by the introduction of invasive species from boaters putting their boats in the lake.
WHEREAS, there is not a compelling need for such a public boat access as there are currently many boat accesses available to the public within 30 miles of Lake Pequaywan.
Now, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that, due to the environmental, economical, safety and quality of life issues that will be negatively impacted by the location of such a public boat access, the Pequaywan Lake Association strongly requests that the DNR drop its objective for a public boat access on Pequaywan Lake.
It was suggested that”invasive”be changed to “aquatic exotic invasive”.
Motion by Dave Allison, seconded by Jerry Rosdahl to accept the amended resolution. Approved. It was suggested the Pequaywan Township supervisors pass a similar resolution at the Tuesday, July 14th meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Special thanks to the Meads and McDonoughs for today’s treats.
Committees:
History Committee: History committee will meet at Meads, Wednesday, July 15, at 7:00 p.m.
Lake Quality Committee: Lake testing to be arranged.
Safety/Water craft/Fire Committee: Scott Mead asked that any bad behavior by boaters be reported to the DNR or Sheriffs’s Department. Try to get the name of the person and boat number.
Service Committee: Trash Day will be Saturday, August 15, 9:00-1:00. $5 for trunk load, $10 for trailer or pick-up. You must be an association member by Saturday, August 8. Yard Waste Day will be Saturday, August 29, 10:00-1:00.
It was suggested that the association join the Minnesota Cabin Association. Phyllis Mead will look into this.
Phil Erickson made the motion to adjourn. Marialice Arnt seconded . Approved.
JUNE 6, 2009
The meeting was called to order by Vice President Richard Arnt. There were 59 members present.The minutes of the May 2, 2009 meeting had appeared on the association website and distributed at this meeting. Phil Erickson moved to approve the minutes as written. Approved.
Jim Guldseth presented the treasurers report. The checking account totaled $1820.79. That included income of $510.00 of membership dues. Phil Erickson moved to approve the treasurers report. Approved.
OLD BUSINESS;
Front door repair billing: Mary Beth Schultz moved to approve the billing of $250.00 to John Lucia for door repair. Approved.
Road pick-up-May 11. Special thanks to Bob McDonough, Arnie Johnson, Gordy and Becky Larson, Carole and Carl Trotter and Scott and Phyliss Mead.
Brush Day-May 30th. There were 32 loads of brush in total since spring. People are abusing the use of the brush pile area by bringing brush exceeding 8 ½ inches in diameter. We could loose the privilege of this service if this abuse continues. Thanks to Phyliss Mead for the nut bar treats.
NEW BUSINESS:
Special thanks to Kathy Sluka and Darlene Mammenga for today’s treats.
Committee Reports:
Events Committee: Kristy Helgen reported that the Association picnic will be held July 25 at the Inn. More information at the next meeting.
Lake Quality Committee: Lake clarity taken on the Big Lake on June 3 was 12 feet. Water color slightly brown with a trace of sediment detected. Mark Merrill discussed the lake testing to be done this summer . A decision will be made on what key items have to be tested . $500 has been provided for testing on both lakes.
Service Committee: Brush Day August 29th. 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Waste Day -Tentative-August 15th. 9:00-1:00 p.m. Rod Alstead and Richard Arnt will pick up trash for those members who are incapacitated and unable to haul it. Call Richard (848-2998) or Rod (848-2988).
Safety/Water Craft/Fire Committee: Thanks to Dale Gauthiers, Scott Mead, and Richard Arnt for placing the buoys on the Big Lake. Ray Barnes will help set up a GPS system this summer.
Finance Committee: Jim Guldseth will meet with Dexter Larson about filing certain tax forms because the Association is now incorporated.
History Committee: Committee is scheduled to meet in July.
Environmental Committee: The committee has met and its goal is to provide educational information on protection of natural resources to association members that could include water quality, invasive species, and water fowl. There are 3 loons on the Big Lake and 3 loons on the Little Lake.
Potential Public Access on Big Lake: Richard Arnt presented information on the possibility of the DAR purchasing lots that are for sale on the Big Lake to be used for public access. The area would provide parking for 8-10. Discussion followed. Judy Strom read a draft of a proposed resolution. Motion by Richard Arnt that we develop a plan of action resolution asking the DNR not to put in public access because of the environmental damage. Seconded by Bob McDonough. Approved. Members were urged to contact Peg Sweeney on the St. Louis County Board and the DNR.
Joe Russell Thomas L. Peterson
NR Spec SR Trails & Waterways NR Area Sup. -. T & W
Natural Resources Dept DAR Two Harbors Office
DAR Two Harbors Office 1568 Highway 2
1568 Highway 2 Two Harbors, MN. 55616
Two Harbors, MN 55616
Joe. Russell@state.mn.us Thomas.Peterson@state.mn.us
218/824-1433 218/834-1437
More discussion will follow at the next meeting.
Motion by Richard Arnt to adjourn, seconded by Phil Erickson. Approved.
Lorene Sorlien, Secretary
MAY MEETING
The meeting was called to order by President Phyllis Mead at 10 a.m. There were 21 members present.
The minutes of the September 13, 2008, meeting had appeared on the Association website and distributed at this meeting. Phil Erickson moved to approve the minutes as written. Ron Sluka seconded the motion. Approved.
Jim Gulseth presented the Treasurer's report. The checking account balance $1,310. 79. Reported income was $80.00 and total expenses $110.93 for postage and printing for the spring newsletter. About $200.00 in membership fees had come in today but had not been added to the current balance . The CD due in July balance is $11, 130.85 and the CD due in September balance is $5, 635.5 . Ron Sluka move to approve the treasurers report. Phil Erickson seconded the motion Approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
Phylis thanked Judy Strom for her work on the spring newsletter, Richard Arnt for obtaining three- ring binders and buoys, and Donna Johnson, Kathy Sluka, and Marialice Arndt for today’s food. The binders will be used for association handbooks.
Committees:
Service Committee — Trash & Brush Days. Richard Arndt reported that the Brush Day will be May 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Will take grass clippings, leaves, and wood, maximum of 8" in diameter. No building materials or trash. Trash day will be August 15 (tentative) Cost will be $10 for trailer or pickup, $5.00 car trunk.
Program Committee — Upcoming programs are:-
June 6: David Benson, birdwatcher and owl expert from Duluth
July 11: Tiger muskie discussion with Dan Dexter, retired DNR, lake cabin owner
Aug. 8: Annual meeting, program on skin care, and problem prevention with Dr. Joel Bamford, Dermatologist, resident on Little Pequaywan.
Sept. 5: To be announced
Environmental Committee — Deb Pomeroy reported on the knapweed protection problem. There isn’t any particular plan now. The land owner should be responsible for their own property. Don’t cut grass short. Many loons were spotted on the lake, April 25.
Lake Quality Committee — Mark Merrill reported that he is working with a department at University of Wisconsin, Superior, to determine the best way to test the water quality in both lakes. The Association plans on hiring a water specialist to test the lakes to get a baseline for future.
Safety, Watercraft and Fire Committee — Scott Mead reported that there are enough buoys to mark bad places on the lakes.
Phyllis Mead reported on the planting project by the township announcement sign. Native plants would be planted. Pequaywan Township has donated $150 for the project. Jim Gulseth made a motion that the association match that contribution. Seconded by Phil Erickson. Approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
Ron Sluka suggested that the outside door of the community room be repaired.
Tuesday lunch is being held the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month at the firehall.
Lakeside Chapel cleanup May 21st at 6:00 p.m.
Motion to adjourn. Seconded by Phil Erickson. Approved
Lorene Sorlien, Secretary
