Grant County board raises Birch tile assessment rates after public comment

The Grant County Drainage Board voted March 31 to raise assessment rates for the Birch tile to new levels the board said are intended to build the fund to cover recurring repairs. The motion passed after public comment from a resident who described chronic flooding and asked the town and county for clearer drainage maps.

Resident Russell Swanson of 411 Osborne Drive told the board his property floods frequently and questioned whether he should be charged when his property does not appear tied into the storm system used by the township. "I personally don't feel like I should be getting charged anything from anybody right now," Swanson said, adding that he believes storm infrastructure connecting his property has not been maintained or updated.

Board discussion referenced the Birch tile fund balance and multi-year collection goals; at the hearing the staff noted the fund had a low balance (the packet listed $358 in the fund). The board then moved to increase rates to $20 per acre, $50 per home site, $150 for commercial property and $50 per parcel; the motion was seconded and carried.

Board members and staff said the rate change is designed to accumulate money for necessary repairs and possible tiling projects, while acknowledging some residents may need individual adjustments depending on how their property connects to drainage systems. Staff offered to work with residents who show records indicating they are not connected to the assessed system.

The board adjourned after the vote; staff will publish any updated assessment roll and notices required by statute prior to the next billing cycle.