With the sole and frequently stated purpose of providing yet another choice for wireless internet to the city and surrounding area’s residents, Becky Severtson, a representative of the Albert Lea-based company known as LTD Broadband, paid a visit to the Canton City Council during their regularly scheduled meeting held on August 9.
Severtson outlined the company’s wishes of the addition of their equipment to the town’s water tower as an increasing amount of inquiries regarding better service have been made. In addition to strengthening the quality of wireless internet in the vicinity, the broadband business also grants free service to all city buildings, of which Canton personally would make use of in the city hall, wastewater plant, town hall, and fire department.
Noting of the city’s limited liability of paying the minimal electric bill associated with the equipment as all maintenance is supplied by the company, along with the approximate savings of $1,000 per year, Councilmember Charlie Warner verbalized the opinion of the council as a whole in saying, “It is probably something we should look into.”
Mayor Donivee Johnson presented her one concern of proper procedure upon the water tower needing painting or servicing, and, after being reassured that the equipment can merely be removed during that time, members and LTD Broadband alike agreed to formulate a contract for review and the possibility of a motion in September.
Concerning the playground equipment located on the old school property, though originally planned to be sold to the city of Mabel for means of use at a daycare facility, a lack of interest led the council to not only pursue Anna and Larry Soiney as buyers, who had shown previous interest in the park, but also lower the price. Members settled upon the reduced rate of $800, providing that the said bidders commit to the purchase and act upon removing the recreational paraphernalia.
Though the recent water meter project has reached completion, a select few issues have continued to pose problems. twelve customers have been the victims of water leaks or bursts; however, all have been contacted, with nearly all fixed. Furthermore, five individuals have been charged the previously decided $75 fee in accordance to their failure to comply with the set due date. Lastly, six residents are waiting to hear back from a plumber before proceeding to the subsequent steps in the project. With the help of widespread cooperation, councilmembers are hoping that these select problems will be resolved by the end of the month.
Looking further into updating the doors for the fire hall to that of keyless entry, Councilmember Randy Gossman voiced that he conversed with Smidt Companies located in Racine, of which concurred to come and take a look in the next week or so with plans of determining a quote before beginning any work.
With the much-anticipated town celebration known as Canton Day Off quickly approaching, the council is looking at what can be done to attract the most prospects, both in terms of city appearance and activities during the ordeal. Initially brought up by Councilmember Jim Davis, it was opted to attempt to contact a couple possible persons with the intention of them staining the gazebo. Although it is perhaps a bit short notice, the current state of tackiness, along with the possibility of the wood beginning to rot away have brought the issue to the forefront. However, with the event in such close proximity timewise, the council chose to wait until the fall if the probability of the project reaching completion prior to such seems unlikely.
Despite the cancellation of the Boomer Backyard BBQ due to the lack of entries, in terms of other happenings occurring during Canton Day Off, fun is undoubtedly to be had by those of all ages, with Councilmember Cindy Shanks explaining the just of the event. The beer tent, Bloody Mary contest, bean bag tournament, various touring options, coffee and bake sale, and live music are all scheduled for those more mature in age. Providing the little ones with some entertainment as well are the bounce houses and talent show. Go kart racing, along with a bucket raffle featuring prizes such as an Amish furniture glider, Grizzly cooler, two-night stay at Amish Valley Cabin, two picnic tables with beverages included, bean bag boards, and cash, and bingo offering a $500 payout are sure to attract the attention of those of all ages.
Revisiting the possibility of a city website, having found people willing to upkeep the content, the council decided to further proceed in the undertaking, with plans to contact the state to obtain a domain name.
In its continued state of deterioration, the old school property presents significant danger to youth near the site. Having noted this in previous months and with nothing having been done, councilmembers justified that the only action left to take was to declare the decision to be public record, contact the alleged individual in charge of the property, and give him a set amount of time to secure the assets before acquiring a charge upon the city doing so itself.
As for new business, City Clerk Lolly Melander requested that all members let her know immediately of anything they feel the need to budget for as a motion for a tax levy percentage is nearing in September.
Looking ahead towards the 2018 Election and reminiscing through previous election years, the council approved the motion for an absentee ballot. Having lost all preceding election judges and most likely promising a better turnout and savings of around $4,000 per election cycle, the decision was both an enthusiastic and unanimous one.
Reviewing recent procedures of the garbage collection service known as Richard Sanitation, the need for change was openly expressed. With many articulating of the company’s failure to issue itemized billing with accurate and detailed customer lists, unhappiness was openly expressed, further taking into account of the unfairness to residents and the presence of charging for work that neglects to be done. The council determined that, although they would try to work things out with the business, they would ultimately terminate their contract if need be.
The next Canton City Council meeting will be held at Canton City Hall on September 13, at 7 p.m.
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