Minutes TOW Meeting Oct 7, 2003

Meeting was called to order at 1717 hours. Present were Barb Wilkerson, Barb Kellogg, Kathy Bakken, Mike Huinker, Dave Bakken, Lowell Shuman.

Minutes of Sept 9, 2003 were read and approved.

Financial report showed balance on Sept 30 of $4966.39. No outstanding bills have been received.

The opening of new WalMart in January 2004 was discussed. It was felt that TOW should begin planning for a connector trail to pass by WalMart to Freeport. Numerous routes were discussed, with caution to not publicly propose routes until all potentially affected property owners and interested parties have been contacted and solicited for their input.

There was no further information on the Vennehjem Trail

The status of the Bowstring Bridge- Fish Hatchery Trail was discussed. There was much frustration that minimal progress has been made. John Hjelle (phone call) suggested TOW contact the City for assistance in a number of areas, including engineering, finance, legal issues, ownership, governance, maintenance, and others. The members at the meeting felt other entities should be contacted who may also have interest in the project to integrate and organize what appears to be a very complex situation. These would include but may not be limited to County Conservation Board, Supervisors, Park-Rec, and DNR. John (later phone call) agreed that some sort of organizational efforts will be required but cautioned about making more work than our organization can do with our limited resources. The members requested that letters be drafted to the above entities outlining our progress and activities to date and requesting assistance addressing unresolved problems. It was felt TOW should retain its advisory and advocacy role but is not able to undertake the full responsibility of trail construction. John and Dave will begin the process this next week and will email or call those members present for updates and assistance.

Other connector trails were discussed and possible routes proposed.

Other business: the 501c3 application needs to be completed. Lowell will have input.

The next meeting will be Nov 4, 2003.

Adjournment at 1820.