Summary
The Kasson Township Board met on September 9, 2026, and approved the agenda, the August 12 minutes, payment of bills, and Ordinance 2026-02 establishing a temporary moratorium on data centers. The board also discussed road work in Maple City, including Dr. William Lee’s request regarding Hill Street, and agreed to ask for more information on repair/upgrade options. Other key topics included election preparation, fire board matters, planning commission priorities, park gate repairs, and upcoming snowplowing bids. The meeting adjourned at 7:51 pm.Public comments
Dr. William Lee submitted a written communication regarding his property and Hill Street in Maple City, asking the board to consider requesting an estimate from the Road Commission for repair and upgrade work on the street between the church and Bellinger Road. The board later discussed the road condition and supported Supervisor Julian continuing discussions with Craig Brown of the LCRC to obtain options for the road and driveway combination.During public comment later in the meeting, Lanham noted the township needs to renew its snowplowing contract for winter. The board discussed it and decided to seek bids for snow plowing for next winter, with the matter to be placed on the next agenda.
Steve Yoder provided county-level updates, including drainage district issues, county credit card/account changes, strategic planning work, opioid settlement spending, and upcoming public hearings related to housing funds and materials management/recycling planning. David Noonan asked whether an EMS station had been considered instead of a full new fire station; Lanham said he would bring that up at the next fire board meeting.
Infrastructure projects
The board reviewed road projects for 2026/2027. Julian reported that the county portion of the Maple City project has begun and that Elmers will begin its portion after that is completed. Regarding Hill Street, Craig Brown with the LCRC agreed to review the project and determine what would be needed to upgrade and repair the road. There was discussion of the current road condition and possible options, and the board reached consensus that Julian should continue talking with Brown to get options for the road and driveway combination.The supervisor also reported ongoing work on drainage issues on the north side of the township building, including possible gutter installation. In addition, Noonan inspected the park gate and found hardware repairs are needed. Julian contacted Apple Fence for a possible quote, and T. Carter will look for parts to repair and re-hang the gate.
Other Business
The board approved the agenda and the August 12, 2026 regular meeting minutes. Pertinent communications and presentations were none.The Planning Commission discussed whether it should hire a professional planner. Board members suggested first hearing from the commission about its needs and likely costs. The board also noted recent PC actions, including approval of an amendment to a special use permit for AW & Sons and forwarding gravel-use language amendments to the LCPC. Renewable energy language in the Zoning Ordinance was identified as a priority.
The Fire Board report covered a public hearing on the 2027/28 budget, workers’ compensation cost increases, draft amendments to the Interlocal Agreement for facilities, and possible future station planning on the western side of the service area. The board also discussed representation from all four townships.
Boomer reported she is preparing for the November election, and an election commission meeting will be needed after the October board meeting to appoint election workers.
Julian reported one hall use for the weekend by the Davis Lake Association. T. Carter said he will continue working on replacement Maple City entrance signs. Julian also reminded everyone about the Tim Cypher memorial on September 19. The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 14 at 7 pm.
Financial Summary
Treasurer’s report: - Receipts: $683,436.95 - Disbursements: $561,414.99 - Balance: $1,573,167.56Budget matters:
- Boomer reported that new election equipment will likely be required before the 2028 election cycle.
- No state or federal funding source has been identified.
- Estimated cost is about $15,000, and could nearly double if an AV counting board is required before 2028.
- The County Clerk’s Office is expected to research and seek bids in 2027.
- Bills were approved as presented.
Fire Board budget:
- The 2027/28 Cedar Area Fire & Rescue budget was distributed for review.
- The township tabled approval until October so the full board could participate.
Ordinance 2026-02:
- The board adopted a temporary moratorium on data centers by roll call vote.
- Vote: T. Carter yes, Boomer yes, Julian yes.
- Effective date: day after publication.
- Term: one year, until September 9, 2027, unless zoning/other ordinance amendments become effective sooner.