At the June 28 city council meeting, Chatfield councilor John McBroom announced his resignation. Councilor Paul Novotny was absent.
McBroom, who was serving a second term on the council, explained that a lot of things come up which we have no control over. “Just can’t do it anymore; I am missing some of the grandkids’ events, you just can’t get that back,” he said.
Mayor Russ Smith said sometimes it can be a thankless job, stressful at times. He said it is great to go through this experience. However, there are things you miss or give up. Smith admitted he had talked McBroom into serving another term.
City Clerk Joel Young thanked McBroom for his service. The council will look at options to fill the vacancy at the next council meeting.
Rescue plan funds
The Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Fund was established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) which was passed in March 2021. A total of $322,000 has been allocated for the city of Chatfield. The state will distribute ARPA funds to the city as its population is under 50,000. A resolution was adopted requesting payment of the first half of the ARPA funds.
Other business in brief
•The 2021 crackfilling project will be completed this summer. An estimate from S. L. Contracting, Inc., DBA Rochester Service Company, in the amount of $18,484 was approved to do the crackfilling. The streets to be crackfilled are 15-20 years old.
Ryan Priebe described the issues with the swimming pool heater. There were issues with it last August, after which it was fixed. This time parts are not available for at least 4 to 6 weeks and they would cost $4,000. There is not a replacement heater to be found anywhere in the country. Two bids have been received to replace the heater in October. Priebe pointed out other options. Councilor Mike Urban suggested looking at all the options. Priebe noted the pool is from 76 to 78 degrees in the morning and in the 80s later in the day. Mayor Smith said he should continue to explore options for the heater.
•Logan Tjossem, Widseth, was appointed the City Planner and Zoning Administrator.
•The first consideration of Ordinance 453, Zoning Amendment, was approved. The amendment provides for permitted land uses in the B-1 (General Business District).
•Alex Scrabeck was appointed/hired as an EMT, as recommended by Rocky Burnett, director Chatfield Ambulance. The resignation of Nancy Timm from EMT status was accepted, with thanks for her years of service as an EMT.
•Approval was given for Chatfield Center for the Arts to host an outdoor concert in City Park on July 30. The Rochester band, “My Grandma’s Cardigan,” will be featured.
•The Committee of the Whole met before the regular council meeting. It was a joint meeting with the Heritage Preservation Commission. The commission updated the committee on their goals and projects that are being worked on. Interpretive signs should be up by August.
•Approval was given for Kent Whitcomb to serve on the Planning and Zoning Committee.
•Councilor Pam Bluhm reported on the Public Services Committee. There has been a request for a crosswalk across Fillmore County Road 2, from Groen Park to Mill Creek Park. Bluhm said the committee recommended the use of signs, rather than a crosswalk. Signs will likely have to be approved by the county.
•Bluhm reported that everything is going forward for Western Days.
•The Friendship Wagon Train overnighted at Mill Creek Park on June 24-25. The annual event raises funds for the Winnebago Camp for people with special needs.
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