Dunn County residents are facing ongoing disputes regarding road maintenance and property rights, as highlighted in the recent commission meeting held on January 2, 2025. The meeting featured a heated discussion between property owner Dean Berwick and representatives from the Tormach family, who have been accused of encroaching on Berwick's land while maintaining a county road.

Berwick presented evidence claiming that significant amounts of dirt had been removed from his property without permission, asserting that the Tormach family had taken over 60 yards of dirt from the area adjacent to the road. He expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of action from the county to address the situation, despite previous complaints and requests for an injunction against unauthorized road work.

The Tormach family defended their actions, stating that they had received permission from county officials to maintain the road. They argued that the road in question is a laid-out county road, and any maintenance performed was within their rights. Historical context was provided, indicating that permissions had been granted by past county commissioners and road superintendents for maintenance activities.

The discussion revealed a complex history of permissions and misunderstandings regarding the road's maintenance and ownership. Berwick contended that the Tormachs had no right to remove dirt from his property, while the Tormachs maintained that they were acting within the bounds of their authority as granted by the county.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the issue has persisted for years, with previous attempts to resolve the matter leading to civil recommendations rather than concrete actions. The commissioners acknowledged the need for clarity on property lines and permissions, emphasizing the importance of proper documentation in future maintenance agreements.

The commission's next steps will likely involve further investigation into the claims made by both parties, with the aim of reaching a resolution that respects property rights while ensuring the necessary maintenance of county roads. The ongoing dialogue underscores the challenges faced by local governments in managing community resources and addressing disputes among residents.