The Chatfield City Council met on May 12. Councilor Paul Novotny was absent.
Public Works director Brian Burkholder explained the cost for the alley way improvements will be significantly less with this year’s prices compared to last year. There will be roughly a savings of $2,205 per alley with this year’s prices due to reduced work forecasted for Rochester Sand and Gravel (a savings of about $39,690).
The total cost for the proposed project will be $124,302. The project was approved as recommended by the Public Work committee.
Deputy Clerk
City Administrator Michelle Peterson reported there were 27 applications for the position. Eight were interviewed. The position has been offered to Andrea Eickhoff. A motion approving her hire as deputy clerk was approved.
Other Business in Brief
•A letter of support for the development of the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail and for steps to keep the project moving forward was approved. The city supports the proposed development as it will be a benefit to the community, regional natural resources, and the local economy.
•The first quarter financial report was approved.
•A $25 donation to the fire department was accepted.
•A $25 donation submitted by Laurie Byrne to be used for operational purposes by the library was accepted. An $85 donation submitted by Splittstoesser Quilters to be used for capital purchases for the library was accepted. A $300 donation submitted by Get the Scoop to be used for the Summer Reading Program for the library was accepted.
•A donation made by Chatfield Youth Sports Association in the amount of $1,680 was accepted to be used to install a double chain link gate on the south ballfield.
•A tax-exempt permit for St. Mary’s Catholic Church was approved.
•A donation of real property from land within Hilltop Estates First Addition that contains city infrastructure was approved. Chatfield Hilltop Estates, LLC will provide interests in the land it owns, including access and egress easement, the right to maintain certain municipal water facilities and structures, and storm water detention facilities.
•Mayor John McBroom proclaimed May 18-24 as Emergency Medical Services Week; “We Care, For Everyone.” The value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers is recognized. This is the 51st anniversary of EMS Week. McBroom added, “We have a very good crew.” Councilor Josh Broadwater noted that we often take for granted what the EMS staff does.
•McBroom again asked that people keep their golf carts off Strongwell and Mediacom property.