Letters to the editor: Support an Esko frame of mind

The recent discussion about the “Eskomos” nickname brings a related topic to mind: numerous past proposals to officially rename Thomson Township to Esko Township. The last time was a few years ago and by one of the town’s stalwarts — the late Davis Helberg — in order to honor the town’s heritage. The town board was very supportive, but state statute requires 50 percent (plus one) of the registered voters total number to sign a petition requesting the action. It was suggested at a board meeting that petitions be made available at the town hall during the upcoming elections. The town attorney said that type of activity isn’t permitted on any election day. Unless a petition is brought door to door (an unlikely scenario due to public laxity), it will not happen.

But the board has not considered another viable option: Making the entire township the City of Esko. The neighboring township of Rice Lake did just that to prevent Duluth from annexing them. It would not surprise me if Cloquet considered annexing our township because of population and property tax gains.

Consider that our township is second only to Cloquet in population within Carlton County and there are many smaller official cities in the county. Plus, becoming a city would be a way to rename the township.

Thomson Township’s present board of supervisors consists of five members elected by districts who represent at large (which gives the incumbent a definite advantage). Four of the present members have served for at least 20 years and seem set in their ways. The newest member, Jason Paulson, has been much more adaptable to working with the town’s population growth. I would personally endorse him. I also encourage anyone else to sign up to run for the board by Tuesday’s deadline.

The present board keeps professing to support business and education. It also professes to want to keep the township’s rural culture while celebrating new housing and business builds because of the increased property taxability. I think the board hasn’t put its money where its mouth is with actual progressive (small “p”) actions to help small rural business and students (think broadband accessibility).

We need fresh board members. Two of five seats are up for election this November, but three more will be available in another two years. The board can only be changed slowly, so do your part this time around with a view to the next.

John Bergman, Thomson Township7