Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The following is a staff-prepared summary of key discussion points and decisions from this meeting. For the complete official record, please refer to the approved minutes above.

Right-of-Way Grass Maintenance — Resident Concern A resident, Mr. Wilson, addressed the board regarding an ongoing concern about maintenance of a grass strip located on town right-of-way near the corner of Maple and Park Drive.

• Mr. Wilson stated that he had been mowing the town's right-of-way strip adjacent to his property for approximately 12 years and submitted an invoice to the town requesting $4,800 in back pay for that work.
• Town staff clarified that the town does not routinely mow all rights-of-way throughout town, but does address specific areas upon complaint or when overgrowth is identified as the town's responsibility.
• The board acknowledged appreciation for Mr. Wilson's efforts but declined to authorize back pay, noting it would set a precedent affecting many other properties in town.
• A proposal to concrete over the grass strip was discussed but raised concerns about increased stormwater runoff to an already-strained storm drain. The board leaned toward continuing to mow the strip when the adjacent walking track field is cut.
• Staff indicated they would work on developing a formal policy clarifying homeowner versus town responsibilities for right-of-way maintenance.

Hunting Ordinance Amendment The board considered an amendment to the town's code of ordinances that would specifically prohibit bow and arrow hunting within town limits.

• Staff presented a draft ordinance modeled on language used by neighboring municipalities. The current ordinance does not address bow and arrow hunting, creating confusion among residents each hunting season.
• Commissioners discussed public safety concerns given the town's small size and dense residential areas, as well as the growing deer population in and around town.
• A commissioner made a motion to adopt the ordinance amendment as presented. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Backflow Prevention Ordinance Following a routine water system audit, staff recommended the town formally adopt a backflow prevention ordinance for its water distribution system.

• The auditing agency provided draft language and recommended the board adopt a formal backflow ordinance prior to the next audit cycle.
• A motion to adopt the backflow ordinance was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.

Asset Inventory and Assessment Grant Administration The board reviewed a proposal to select an engineering firm to administer recently awarded water and sewer asset inventory and assessment grants totaling $300,000 ($150,000 each for water and sewer).

• The town advertised a request for qualifications and received one response, from the W Company, which has worked closely with the town in recent years.
• Staff recommended accepting the proposal. A motion to approve was made by one commissioner and seconded by Commissioner Connor. The motion passed unanimously.

Holiday Activities and Employee Christmas Bonus Staff updated the board on upcoming holiday events and sought direction on the annual employee Christmas bonus.

• A Christmas parade is planned for December 7, with multiple float sponsors secured and a band confirmed. A final float count is expected by December 1.
• The "Light Up Ranlo" yard decorating contest will return this year, with first, second, and third place prizes as in past years.
• A community Thanksgiving meal is scheduled for November 19 at noon. Catering through Jackson's Cafeteria was arranged for approximately 125 guests at roughly $9–$10 per plate, totaling just under $1,500. Potter's House will assist with serving and cleanup.
• Staff expressed cautious optimism about potentially holding a Winter Wonderland event at the lodge, pending completion of ongoing renovations and final permit approvals.
• The board discussed the town's improved financial position, noting the utility fund moved from a $95,000 deficit the prior year to adding $292,000 back to fund balance, and the general fund also ended the year strongly.
• Staff noted employee morale has been strained due to a heavy workload including water main breaks, sewer station issues, the lodge renovation project, and ongoing public works demands. Several employees have inquired about taking part-time jobs during the holiday season.
• The board discussed continuing the employee Christmas bonus at the previously budgeted level. In prior years, a $775 bonus was distributed to all town employees the week of Thanksgiving. The board indicated support for proceeding with the budgeted bonus amount.