Esmann Island Owner’s Association Board Meeting April 18, 2020

Board Members Present: **Due to Covid-19 this meeting was held virtually via ZOOM. Meeting called to order at 8:02 by Terry Denner. Board members present: Terry Denner, Chip Flory, Andrew Phelps, Tony Reyerson, Jane Ertl Root, Bob Buhrow, Micah Geistkemper.    Also present: Laurie Helling (Secretary), Helen Schwietert (Treasurer)

Minutes:
Terry Denner asked for approval of October Minutes which had been emailed to Board members by Laurie Helling.  Terry Denner asked for a motion to waive reading minutes aloud.  Chip Flory made a motion to waive & approve minutes.  Bob Buhrow 2nd the motion. All in favor. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report:

  • The Island Farm acreage lease has been renewed.
  • The CD auto rolled at the end of February.
  • Over $3000 was reimbursed to the Association from the Pond Fund via Can Redemption
  • Note: Add Agenda Item for Annual Meeting: Estimated pricing for Pond Aerator purchase & installation
  • Motion made by Jane Ertl Root  to approve Treasurers Report. 2nd by Tony Reyerson. All approved. Motion passed.

Bills Presented:   

  • Alliant Energy—
    • Jane Ertl Root will work on streamlining billing
  • Garbage dumpster that was in place during road embargo has been picked up. Much better result over last year. It was only filled with trash and as far as we could tell, just from our island. Was only needed for 3 weeks.
  • Motion made by Jane Ertl Root to approve Treasurers Report. 2nd by Tony Reyerson. All approved. Motion passed.

Building Permits:   

  • Burkle: All permits in place for a single story 3 stall garage. Setbacks checked by Building Committee member Steve Lampe.  Permit approved.
  • Brief discussion on number of garages/storage buildings being built on lots
  • Greif submitted Esmann building permit fee for raising garage.

Reminder-Building Committee members are: Chris Miller, Steve Lampe, Andy Blaylock, Wayne Jensen

  • Permits & building plans need to be checked by a Building committee member prior to being presented to Board and signed off by a building committee member after completion for final board approval.

Property Ownership Changes:

  • NOTE: If property is sold or changes hands between family members, it is very much appreciated if the Board is notified so we can keep current information for our records and correct mailing of annual dues.
  • Sheppard to Pittman  415 Timberlane Rd
  • Buhman to Vonhandorf  302 River View Rd

Road Report:  

  • No seal coat quote to date but will pursue this year by Andy Phelps
  • Board will get an updated figure to present at Annual Meeting
  • Thank you to Andrew Phelps for keeping an eye on road conditions this spring, closing gates during high water on back road!

Boat Storage Committee:  

  • Don Niosi will update at May meeting

Landscape/Beautification: No members of committee present

Pond Committee:   No members of committee present. Discussion of future Pond area Clean Up Day tabled until May meeting

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Farm Field:  Current lease holder (Kann) was offered first chance/contract to renew and have done so.
  • Exploration of placing field in CRP or wildflower program still ongoing.
  • Wildflower program would double the income on the property and would be a 10 yr plan
  • FSA had some questions about a “private entity” being given a contract but we have not fully worked through process at this time.
  • Secretary Laurie Helling has drafted letter to be mailed to area Tree Service companies about removing cut trees, branches and debris OFF the island after job is completed. It is not to be dumped on island.

NEW BUSINESS:  

  • Association gave a $500 Donation to the Guttenberg Fire Department
  • Discussion held on the vandalism incident this spring and ideas for watching for this type of activity throughout the year.
  • ELECTIONS:  WE NEED CANDIDATE NOMINATIONS FOR THE BOARD ASAP!
    • We have at least 3 Open board positions that will be open this year.
    • Ideally, would love candidate names for the May mailing for Annual Meeting
    • *25 signatures for candidates may be waived due to Covid-19 restrictions (more info to come)
      • Write in or Candidates could also be nominated during Annual Meeting
  • PLEASE CONSIDER taking a turn on your Esmann Association Board! 
  • If you want to be placed on the Ballot, or have any questions, please reach out to current Board member! THANK YOU!!
  • Dock Committee:  Needs to regroup and discuss getting the island dock out and secured at the North Boat Ramp.
  • Hoping we can have it in and secured late May, early June at latest if river levels cooperate.
  • Pavilion—July 4th Celebration–  *Ideally, we’d love to form a committee of a few members to handle our July 4 celebration. Pond Fund would purchase the main meat for meal, Potluck for rest. Committee would handle getting any other entertainment, i.e. DJ, band, picnic Potluck, kids activities etc.  LET US KNOW IF YOU ARE INTERESTED!
  • Labor Day Parade & Potluck—Again, looking for a few volunteers to take over the organization of the day’s events!   If interested, let Board know!  Thanks!
  • IMPORTANT!  ANNUAL MEETING    *JUNE 13 (Pending Covid-19 Conditions/Regulations at this time) Notice would be given as soon as we could if this would change.  Meeting Letter & Statements will be mailed at least 2 weeks prior to Annual Meeting.  
  • Discussion held on having a Plan A and Plan B if Annual Meeting cannot be held in person, and other options for Ballot voting considered as backup.
  • Terry Denner has been in touch with Corp Engineers and they are planning on moving the huge sand pile on the channel side of river further to the North, closer to McGregor. FYI:
    • Plans are for some kind of recreational area near McGregor
    • Dredging the South end of the sand pile island
    • Rocking the West/North
    • Preserving main channel, possibly widen south end and dredge.
    • Supposed to be complete by June.
    • Association has given the Corp employees permission to park in North Ramp area for time being.
    • If they at some point are in the way, we can ask them to park in overflow area by sandpit.

Next monthly meeting will be held May 16th 8:00 am. **Note: If Covid-19 conditions warrant not holding meeting in Island building then decision will be communicated to members prior to meeting.
*IF that is the case it would likely be another virtual meeting.

Terry Denner asked for motion to adjourn. Tony Reyerson made motion to adjourn  2nd by Andrew Phelps.  Motion approved.  Adjourned at 8:53

Respectfully submitted,

Laurie Helling, Secretary

A Few APRIL Housekeeping Notes:

PLEASE NOTE: APRIL BOARD MEETING (4-18-20) Due to the current Shelter In Place conditions, this April board meeting will be a virtual meeting between board members! If there is anything that an island resident wants/needs to have discussed to please forward (if you haven’t already) it to a board member. *Email addresses under Board info top of website.

FYI Islanders! In keeping with the Governor’s directives, we’d are placing the the pavilion and children’s playground area by the pond off-limits for the time being. We appreciate your cooperation!

BACK ROAD GATES ARE OPEN! The water has receded and the back road debris cleared and open.

The Road Embargo is off. Everything is dry and looking good, so regular garbage pick up is back on schedule and no weight limits on road at this time.

ESMANN ISLAND ROCKS–One of our young people, Paige Coon, started her own Esmann Island Rocks FB page. She has been busy painting super cool rocks and placing them all over the island. Paige would like to invite you to look for the rocks on your trips to Esmann. If you find a rock, if possible, take a picture and post picture on the Esmann FaceBook page. Then place the rock in a new spot for the next person to find! What a fun and creative activity! Rock on Paige!

Just a reminder…

Hi all. It was brought to our attention there was some minor “vandalism” that took place by the pond area in the last week. Fireworks had been done, papers, wrappers, pop bottles,cans and assorted trash all over. Some of the decorative signage was removed from trees and from the island garden patch and thrown in the pond. Not exactly sure when this happened or by whom. Since there aren’t a lot of people around yet, we just wanted to remind everyone to be mindful, and if you see something, say something. Thank you! Stay well.

Road Embargo Lifted


The Road Embargo has been lifted. Everything is dry and looking good, so effective immediately regular garbage pick up is back on schedule and no weight limits on road.

Now the river just needs to keep behaving! Oh, and we sure wouldn’t mind some more sun and warmer temps.

Please Stay safe, healthy & kind everyone!

ATTENTION! Temporary Road Embargo for Heavy Vehicles/Equipment

Hello Islanders!

It’s that time of year again.  Due to ground frost going out– we are closing roads effective MARCH 10th, until further notice for heavy equipment, large trucks, trailers, etc. to protect the roads. We will post when it is OK to allow them resume once the soil stabilizes.  Note– if an island member (or any of their contracted work) damages the road, they are assessed any repair cost. 
NOTE: The Back Road will be gated and locked during this period.

It has been decided that there will be a small dumpster put by our island Community Building for daily garbage for resident members.
This small dumpster is NOT, repeat NOT to be used for spring cleaning! We really want to avoid the chaos of last spring. More info coming on island spring clean up day(s) after road conditions are stable.

Thanks for your help in maintaining our roads. Any questions or concerns, contact your board members. 

Esmann Island Owner’s Association Board Meeting October 18, 2019

Board Members Present:

Meeting called to order at 8:01 by Terry Denner. Board members present: Terry Denner, Chip Flory, Andrew Phelps, Tony Reyerson, Jane Ertl Root  *Absent: Josh Geistkemper Also present: Laurie Helling (Secretary), Helen Schwietert (Treasurer)  

Members present: Don Niosi, Bob and Donna Gilkes, Chris Miller, Tom Nagel, Doug Hintzman

Minutes:

  • Terry Denner asked for approval of September Minutes. Chip Flory made a motion to approve minutes.  Tony Reyerson 2nd the motion. All in favor. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report:

  • $25K was moved to CD this week. 2.11% for 20 months, 2.55% for $100K matures in March 2020
  • Motion made by Tony Reyerson to approve Treasurers Report. 2nd by Bob Buhrow. All approved. Motion passed.

Bills Presented:   

  • Alliant Energy— discussion to move to all to auto-pay and even pay.
    • $20.06 & $55.00
  • Postage- Spring Flooding notice mailing $115.25
  • Hoffman Lawn Care $560
  • Bi-County Disposal $2250
  • Secretary Compensation 2019 $526.50

*Note: Association sent invoice to LT Tree Service $400 for tree cleanup. (*dumping their tree debris on island instead of removal.)

Bob Buhrow made motion to approve bills, Tony Reyerson 2nd.  All in favor. Motion carried.

.

Building Permits:   

  • Koppenhaver- 370 River View Rd *Approved
  • Hintzman- Deck replacement permit *Approved
  • Discussion held on 423/425 White Oak. Pump house needs to be relocated within property line. Not intentional, contractor error on location. Board will contact above moving it and making it compliant.

Reminder Building Committee members are: Chris Miller, Steve Lampe, Andy Blaylock, Wayne Jensen

  • Permits & building plans need to be checked by a Building committee member prior to being presented to Board and signed off by a building committee member after completion for final board approval.

Property Ownership Changes:

  • Huber purchased parents lot 408 River View Rd
  • Possible purchase in progress for 341 River View Rd

Road Report:  

  •  No new damage or issues to report
  • Tim Harbaugh has completed  2nd Ave patch

Boat Storage Committee:  

  • Don Niosi reported Alderson doesn’t need storage space and has been removed from list. Ehlers will be placing 2 jet skis in storage. Space is currently full in building. Need to repair side door before winter.

Landscape/Beautification: Nothing at this time

Pond Committee:   Nothing at this time

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Last month there had been discussion about allowing access to non-Esmann members.  We cannot “sell” access or access points to any part of the common grounds etc. (kids park)
  • Field:  Current lease holder (Kann) was offered first chance/contract to renew for longer period. They declined at this time.
  • Exploration of placing field in CRP or wildflower program still ongoing.
  • We have had someone wishing to pull some of the larger logs out of the debris woodpile by sandpit. They are fine to take those if desired.
  • Secretary made contact with County Emergency Services to pick up remaining flood clean up buckets from office.

NEW BUSINESS:  

  •  No Dumping—anywhere on island.

First meeting of 2020 will be April 18,2020

Jane Ertl Root made motion to adjourn  2nd by Bob Buhrow.  Motion approved.  Adjourned at 8:45

Respectfully submitted,

Laurie Helling, Secretary

Esmann Island Owner’s Association Board Meeting September 28, 2019

Board Members Present:

Meeting called to order at 8:02am by Terry Denner. Board members present: Terry Denner, Chip Flory, Andrew Phelps, Tony Reyerson,Jane Ertl Root *Josh Geistkemper   Absent: Tony Reyerson Also present: Laurie Helling (Secretary), Helen Schwietert (Treasurer)  

Members present: Don Niosi, Ken Brandel, Bob Sims, Cindy Miller, Chris Miller, Linda Lampe, Buc Lampe, Doug Hintzman

*Special Board Note: Tom Reimer submitted his resignation from the board effective September 25th .  It was accepted with the Boards’ thank you for many years of service. Since elections were held at the June annual Meeting, the board asked Josh Geistkemper who was next runner up in votes if he would accept the open position. Josh accepted and will fulfill the remainder of Tom’s term on the Board. Andrew Phelps will now be in charge of Road Reports & Issues.

Minutes:

  • Terry Denner asked for approval of August Minutes. Chip Flory made a motion to approve minutes. Jane Ertl Root 2nd the motion. All in favor. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report:

  • Discussion held on Treasurer’s Report and moving a portion of income to a 13 month CD with a higher rate. Terry Denner had been comparing rates at Fidelity. Motion made by Bob Buhrow to move $25K to a CD Andrew Phelps 2nd  All approved. Motion passed.
  • Helen Schwietert submitted her compensation sheet for approval and payment.
  • Motion made by Chip Flory to approve Treasurers Report. 2nd by Bob Buhrow. All approved. Motion passed.

Bills Presented:   

  • Alliant Energy— $23 Jane Ertl Root is close to streamlining all our accounts into one. Discussion on new account number now in place at Fidelity. Had an issue with a duplicate number after their recent merger. 
  • Hoffman Lawn Care- mowing/trimming common grounds $560
  • Association Taxes paid for the year. $2100
  • Friedlein- gravel boat ramp $216
  • Pavilion Ceiling $953
  • Basketball Court-cement slab $6750
  • *Note: Association will be reimbursed 50% from the pond fund for pond area improvements (pavilion, slab)

Chip Flory made motion to approve bills, Bob Buhrow 2nd.  All in favor.  Motion carried.

Building Permits:   

  • Approval sign off on (old) permits: J. Ertl, T. Harbaugh, T. Reyerson, Linder
  • Still Pending:  Sheppard, Burkle
  • Update on reloading Esmann webpage with by-law docs, move up the covenants and building rules to be more prominently placed on page. Double check and update building packet.
  • Discussion initiated by Jane Ertl Root on resurrecting the “New Property Owner” packet to include By-Laws, Building Rules, Covenants, other general info.

As clarification, our Building Committee members are: Chris Miller, Steve Lampe, Andy Blaylock, Wayne Jensen

  • Permits & building plans need to be checked by a Building committee member prior to being presented to Board and signed off by a building committee member after completion for final board approval.

Property Ownership Changes: 1 Property Pending at this time

Road Report:  

  • At August meeting, Andrew Phelps, presented a good report of estimated costs for Hoffmann Lawn Care to cold patch necessary repairs for several low spots, holes etc. on Esmann Island roads.  Approx. $749 Estimate
  • Before the weather turns cold enough to freeze, Hoffmann will work on cold patches. There is a significant bad spot close to Abel and they agreed to pay up to $300 toward repairs.

Boat Storage Committee:  

  • Don Niosi reported there are already 6 boats in storage to date. Only 1 temp space open with the understanding it’s only for 1 yr at this point. Using the waiting list to fill. 

Landscape/Beautification: Cindy Miller informed  the board that member Duncan Ahrens asked for permission to donate and hang up a bench swing between two trees by the boat ramp. Discussion held on construction specs and insurance. Permission granted.

Pond Committee:   Discussion on aerator for the pond was tabled.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Nothing at this time

NEW BUSINESS:  

  • Lengthy and strong discussion held on the huge TREE/BRUSH PILE that rapidly accumulated after the last big storm. While we are so thankful no one was hurt and structural damage was minimal, we have a big issue with the aftermath.
  • First of all, PLEASE: NO MORE DUMPING
  • Verified reports of a local tree service dumping several trailer loads (only had permission to drop 1 tree by pond road), trailer loads from Abel, and even a report of a vehicle from town dumping on the pile.
  • We are now faced with trying to dispose of this huge tangled debris pile.
    • It is too close to the donated planted fruit trees to burn where it is.
    • Would take many volunteers to try and untangle the brush.
    • If anyone wishes to pull out logs for firewood that is a possibility
    • Need a fairly good size dozer or equipment to push the pile further into sand.
    • Estimate for Friedlein to haul the brush pile from island is roughly $1200
    • Burning would need to wait until November.
  • The Board is in agreement this should not happen again in the future.
    • Suggestion of a Bill to be sent to the local tree service who did most of the dumping for removal of brush, logs, branches.
    • New signage will be placed on north end by pond road:  “No Dumping”
    • Helen will be reaching out to someone potentially interested in replenishing firewood to see if they want to tackle the pile.
  • Local tree services will be notified by letter to let them know if they are contracted by private island members for tree services it is either their responsibility as part of their contracted services or  it’s the Esmann owner/member responsibility to remove the debris off the island.  Other options include Burn/stack as firewood, burn in your firepit, chip it for your own mulch etc. *If there are extraordinary circumstances, then you would contact the Board.
  • Motion made to send bill to local tree service to haul off of island several loads since they were a major contributor. 2nd by Josh Geistkemper  All approved, motion passed.

Farm Land Rent:

  • Discussion held on future of farm land. Terry Denner had discussion with current farmers renting the common ground acreage. The Board was interested in establishing a longer term contract for a little more money per acre. They really did not wish to pay more or extend our contract.
  • One option discussed was instead of renewing the farm land lease with current renters is strongly considering submitting the Island field into consideration for a FSA set aside acreage.
    • Specifically a pollination plot. It is basically a CRM program for wildflowers.
    • We would double our income on the land. There is some initial expense but it would still generate a profitable income.
    • Josh Geistkemper mentioned it doesn’t look “pretty” right away as it does need some time to get established.
    • Our responsibility would be to keep wild trees from growing in it, burn off  the field after a certain amount of time etc.
    • The size of our acreage and being next to wildlife refuge makes the property very favorable for the program.
  • Terry Denner asked for board approval to at least submit our name into the program which opens for submissions in November (after last meeting). We wouldn’t even find out for several months if we were chosen and even at that point we could decline.
    • Board members present were in favor of at least submitting our name at this time.
  • It was brought to the Board’s attention there are Abel members wishing to use our pond/playground area.
  • Discussion held on if they are guests of Esmann members they would be covered for insurance liability purposes.
  • Signage does clearly state for Esmann Members only at Pond and Boat Ramp areas.
  • Tabled until June 2020 Annual Meeting.
  • Snow Removal Contract:  Discussion held on continuing with Friedlein for Snow Removal  and Rausch for sand/salt for roads. Chip Flory made motion to continue use of Freidlein and Rausch. Jane Ertl Root 2nd. All approved. Motion passed.
  • Jane Ertl Root asked about the Flood Clean Up Kits/Buckets on hand. We need to get rid of them before it freezes. If you want to pick up one or two, please contact us. Otherwise, Laurie Helling will be contacting Clayton County Emergency Services and Red Cross for pick up.
  • NOTE:  While this is not an immediate concern, we will have 3 Open Board positions at next June 2020 Annual Mtg.
    • Please keep this in mind to throw your hat in the ring, even if you are a newer member or tenured member.
    • You need 25 member signatures turned into the current board to be placed on the ballot. Please contact secretary if you would like a form.

Last Board Meeting of 2019 will be held October 19, 2019  8:00 am

First meeting of 2020 will be April 18, 2020

Terry Denner asked for motion to adjourn. Motion made by Chip Flory  2nd by Andrew Phelps.  Motion approved.  Adjourned at 9:40am.

Respectfully submitted,

Laurie Helling, Secretary

Esmann Island Owner’s Association Board Meeting August 17, 2019

Board Members Present:
Meeting called to order at 8:00am by Terry Denner. Board members present: Terry Denner, Chip Flory, Andrew Phelps, Tony Reyerson, Tom Reimer  Absent: Jane Ertl Root, Bob Buhrow, Also present were Laurie Helling (Secretary), Helen Schwietert (Treasurer)  

Members present: Don Niosi, Ken Brandel, Bob Sims, Teri Nelson-Denner, Chris Miller, Linda Lampe, Steve Lampe, Kari Winders, Dennis Winders Jr., Dave Wagner

Minutes: Terry Denner asked for approval of July Minutes. Chip Flory made a motion to waive the reading of the July minutes. Tony Reyerson 2nd motion. All in favor. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report:

  • NOTICE: All Assessments paid with exception of 1 property to date.
  • All fees are due August 31st. September 1st = Late fee assessment.
  • Motion made by Chip Flory to approve Treasurers Report. 2nd by Tony Reyerson. All approved. Motion passed.
  • Terry Denner made a note once all assessments are we may be able to start a new CD, or move funds. Tabled until September meeting.

Bills Presented:   

  • Alliant Energy—Jane Ertl Root is still working on streamlining all our accounts into one. Can be done online once we update an Esmann email address. *Will work with Andrew Phelps on email address.
  • Hoffman Lawn Care
  • Clemens/Walters/Conlon/Runde/Hiatt LLP-Legal Review of by-laws and board terms
  • Tony Reyerson made motion to approve bills, Tom Reimer 2nd.  All in favor.  Motion carried.

.

Building Permits:   

  • 314 River View-Deck Replacement due to winter ice damage
  • Koppenhaver-submitted Road Deposit check
  • Disussion held on reviewing and updating Esmann webpage by law docs, highlighting covenants and building rules. Also update building packet.
  • Terry Denner will review current verbiage and Laurie Helling will make updates.
  • Clarification made that no permits are necessary for building of seawall, but a road deposit check must be submitted to board.
  • Member brought to board attention that a tree was removed near 2nd street boat ramp, cut up and thrown in river. Several pieces floated downriver and ended up in other members’ docks. Board noted the contractor who had done this and Terry Denner will contact them about proper removal from island!

As clarification, our Building Committee members are:

  • Chris Miller, Steve Lampe, Andy Blaylock, Wayne Jensen
  • Permits & building plans need to be checked by a Building committee member prior to being presented to Board.

Property Ownership Changes: 1 Property Pending at this time Not final.

Road Report:  

  • Andrew Phelps presented a good report of estimated costs for Hoffmann Lawn Care to cold patch necessary repairs for several low spots, holes etc. on Esmann Island roads.   $749 Estimate
  • Tony Reyerson made motion to approve estimate for consideration. Andrew Phelps 2nd. Motion Passed.

Boat Storage Committee:  

  • Don Niosi reported 1 member wouldn’t be using their boat storage this fall so 1 member moved up the waiting list there are only 3 Members remain on waiting list. 

Pond Committee:   

  • Discussion held on the completion of Pavilion interior roof. Terry Denner had the estimates of the sheeting, colors etc.  Note: ½ of the cost will be covered by Pond Fund which will reimburse Association. Tony Reyerson made motion to order the interior roof sheeting, Tom Reimer 2nd. All in favor. Motion Approved.
  • Disccussion held on concrete for Basketball pad. The concrete is already paid for but board was gathering bids for the construction of pad and finish work. **Again, a portion of this will be reimbursed by Pond Fund.
    • Friedlein-$6750 Est. 30 X 50 X 5 with Rebar
    • Demmer Bros. Labor
    • Tony Reyerson made motion to proceed with Concrete for Basketball pad. Tom Reimer 2nd, All approved. Motion passed.
    • Discussion held on pond aerators and gathering bids for Floating vs Tethered,  half horse motor, weighted lines and diffusers. We will need to do a full mapping of pond (depths) along with height of river. More research before any decisions made. Discussion tabled.

OLD BUSINESS:

  •  **Covered under individual committees
  • No other Old Business voiced from members present
  • MEMBERS: It is your responsibility to TRIM low hanging branches hanging in the road or shrubs that impede traffic view. Please take care of this as needed!

NEW BUSINESS:  

  •  Pond Clean Up—August 25 (Weather Permitting) 9:00
    • Bring garden rakes, shovels, gloves, bug spay
    • Need to rake and even out golf cart path to beach, Move sand off of path, spruce up around playground, pond (algae rake up) and pavilion.
    • MEMBERS:  Please note (and make sure your GUESTS know) NO CARS on the golf cart path to beach area! Thank you.
  • Landscaping (Back Road) Discussion held on gathering more volunteers to help the landscape crew led by Gail Scheer, Mary Eulberg, Cindy Miller. These ladies do a tremendous amount of work and now that some of the flowers and plantings are established it would be great to have more hands on deck for weed control, planting splitting etc.  Suggestion made to even have members volunteer to “adopt” a section of the back road like groups do on county roads and highways to keep them looking clean and neat! Discussion tabled for now.
  • Andrew Phelps presented an idea to the Board for offering a Coast Guard Boat Safety and Boat Inspection on the Island.
    • Coast Guard would conduct the 8 hr Boat Safety training on site for certification. (See below)
    • They would also do an inspection of your boat to make sure you have all the equipment you need etc on board and receive a sticker to place on boat that it’s been inspected.
    • IF you are interested please contact a Board Member or Andrew Phelps so we can gauge interest in holding such an event.

Iowa Boating Safety Education Requirement In Iowa, anyone who is over the age of 12 but under 18 must carry an Iowa Watercraft Safety Certificate if they are operating a boat over 10hp on state waters. It is illegal for an adult to allow a person in this age range to operate their boat without a valid watercraft safety certificate.

  • GOLF CART PARADE:  Hard to believe it’s that time of the year! 
  • Annual Esmann Golf Cart Parade to be held on Sunday, September 1, 2019.
  • Meet at Pond Pavilion 10:00 am for Line Up.
  • Parade will travel ALL the roads on Esmann (will not be going to Abel) Parade will end at Pond Pavilion. 
  • Prizes for  Adults-Best Cart and Kids-Best Cart
  • POT LUCK Lunch will be held at Pavilion around Noon. Roasters of beef and some hot dogs will be provided. Bring a dish to pass, your chairs (for extra seating) table service. Bring own Beverages of choice.

**NOTE: Due to several board members schedule conflicts
Next Board Meeting is moved to September 28, 2019  8:00 am

Terry Denner asked for motion to adjourn. Motion made by Jane Ertl Root  2nd by Andrew Phelps.  Motion approved.  Adjourned at 9:14am.

Respectfully submitted,

Laurie Helling, Secretary

Esmann Island Owner’s Association Board Meeting July 20, 2019

Board Members Present:

Meeting called to order at 8:02am by Terry Denner. Board members present: Terry Denner, Jane Ertl Root, Chip Flory, Andrew Phelps    Absent: Tom Reimer, Tony Reyerson, Bob Buhrow, Laurie Helling (Secretary) Also present were Helen Schwietert (Treasurer)

Members present: Don Niosi, Ken Brandel, Bob Sims, Teri Nelson-Denner, Chris Miller, Charlie & Mary Jo Goldsmith.

Minutes:

  • Chip Flory  motioned to forego the reading of the June annual meeting minutes & secondary Board meeting.  In addition, he complimented Laurie Helling on her thorough summary of the annual meeting.  Motion Made & Approved:  Chip Flory & Andrew Phelps.  All approved. Motion carried. 

Treasurer’s Report:

  • NOTICE: 21 members have not paid their assessments to date. This equals $5700 accounts receivable.  All fees are due August 31st. September 1st = Late fee assessment.  .  
  • Fidelity Bank & Trust contacted Helen concerning our bank account, as the account number will need to change.  The acquisition of a new bank resulted in duplicated account numbers for EIOA and a member at the new bank.  Therefore, FB&T will provide (at no cost) new checks, deposit slips, etc.
  • Motion made by Chip Flory to approve Treasurers Report. 2nd by Jane Ertl Root. All approved. Motion passed.

Bills Presented:   

  • Alliant Energy- Monthly Service changed Even Pay from $2/month to $37/month
  • New Alliant invoice for Shelter electricity.
    • Jane will contact Alliant concerning generation of one invoice for all three services.

JULY BILLS PAID:

  • Alliant Energy                            $         
  • New signs IA prison Ind.                        $
  • Meuser Lumber                         $
  • Helen Schweidert                       $
  • Friedman Insurance                   $
  • Benders Foods                         $         
  • Friedlein Construction                $
  • Bi-County Disposal                   $
  • Nationwide                                $
  • Dale Hoffman Mowing               $

Chip Flory made motion to approve bills, Jane Ertl Root 2nd.  All in favor. Motion carried.

Building Permits:   

  • Goldsmith Permit—423 White Oak –Charlie & Mary Jo Goldsmith.  New Trailer to be constructed in September 2019. Approved: Chip, Jane
  • 480 River View Rd – Permit New deck.
  • 386 River View Rd – Lean-to addition but no permit requested/issued?  Permit paperwork to be taken to owner after this meeting.  By-Laws were consulted concerning assessment fees for non-compliance of building permits.  Our paperwork has correct language.

As clarification, our Building Committee members are:

  • Chris Miller, Steve Lampe, Andy Blaylock, Wayne Jensen
  • Permits & building plans need to be checked by a Building committee member prior to being presented to Board.

Property Ownership Changes: No discussion at this time.

Road Report:  

  • Signs to be hung soon.
  • 357 2nd Ave – Road deposit from Earl Burkle.
  • Andrew Phelps will contact Tim Hoffman to cold-patch repair road potholes in EIOA roads. 

Boat Storage Committee:  

Lots of trailer storage available.  $30/vehicle from now until September 30th.  Discussion of antique cars as a storable vehicle between now and September Car Cruise.

Pond Committee:   

  • Teri Nelson-Denner provided a July 6th picnic update.
  • A donation of three flagpoles/flags to Esmann Island Rock; USA, Iowa & Esmann Island flag.  Teri suggested a Esmann Island logo contest as a way to design our own Island Flag.
  • Labor Day Golf Cart parade was discussed.  Abel Island will be invited to participate but parade route may not include Abel Island and back road.
  • Chip & Sue Flory will donate the cost of a sand point to the new shelter.
  • Air pump aerator has not been purchased.  Scott DeSousa, insurance agent, recommends we obtain a Certificate of Insurance from installer.
  • Basketball Court concrete is paid for but no construction bids have been received.  30’x50′, 5″ thick.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Pothole discussion.
  • Signage hanging.

NEW BUSINESS:  

  • Election of officers at annual meeting.  Terry Denner contacted attorney Jeff Walters regarding how future ballots will be held (3-year terms, only). 
  • Attorney Jeff Walters will also review and provide an opinion on our Building Packet Requirements, which have not been clarified or updated since 1973.
  • The Army Corp of Engineers will be holding Public Hearings on their Master Plan.  Jane Ertl will attend the meeting scheduled for Monday, July 22nd in Prairie du Chien.

Next Board Meeting is August 17, 2019  8:00 am

Terry Denner asked for motion to adjourn. Motion made by Jane Ertl Root  2nd by Andrew Phelps.  Motion approved.  Adjourned at 9:14am.

Respectfully submitted,

Jane Ertl Root

On behalf of Laurie Helling, Secretary