Canton questions a strikeout for the softball field

With limited use throughout the entirety of the year and an overgrowth of weeds, the softball field has proved more of a hassle than means of encouragement towards outdoor activity as of late, therefore earning a fair amount of discussion during the recent Canton City Council meeting held on October 11.

Upon the request of a particular resident urging the occurrence of such, Councilmember Cindy Shanks initiated the discussion regarding the inadequate state of the turf.  Feelings were mutually expressed, and before too long, Public Works Director Jon Nordsving shared his dismay in the situation, noting that because not enough interest in the formation of a league existed, all associated upkeep was inherently abandoned, contributing to its current state.

Nordsving went on to contend that a load of gravel costing around $900 was effectively wasted due to miscommunication relating to the possibility of the development of the group.  He also affirmed that equipment would need to be located to offer preservation services due to the negation in the use of his in the future.

Though the city is hopeful for the sports club to once again develop, although it may prove hard especially considering the continual decrease in those participating as well as the failure of such being established last year, members unanimously agreed it to be of no use to consistently mow, spray, drag, and otherwise care and preserve it if no one is to reap the benefits.  That being said, it was decided to table the matter until spring, with the optimism that additional information will be known on the standings of the likelihood of a softball league at that time. 

On the subject of monthly bills, after calculating final costs on the water tower and figuring in the replacing of a pump, some $300 is projected to remain in this aspect of the budget.  City Clerk Lolly Melander commended those present with, “Good job,” and, “That’s really good budgeting.”

A sort of mystifying check was also received via mail by the city from a specific construction company in Eyota.  With no one declaring knowledge of the individual or reason for payment and with little more than an address, Melander offered to write a letter for means of clarification.

After indicating of the completion of the water tower save for a few safety climb parts, Nordsving mentioned of the need for welding repair on the frequently troublesome city plow truck, justifying that such is an annual occurrence.  He went on to voice of his believed ability to achieve another two years out of the truck before needing to look at a heavier duty and more reliable option. 

Nordsving then brought to the council’s attention the necessity of a new break system in the city’s backhoe due to it being completely worn out and proving crucial during the winter.  Though he affirmed that such will almost assuredly result in a hefty bill, Councilmember Randy Gossman suggested the checking in with an individual familiar with the practice in hopes of at least getting an estimate.

The projects concerning both the old school playground equipment and water meters are relatively complete, though final touches are yet to ensue resulting in the totality of the matters.  The former merely requires the distributing of grass seed and hauling away of railroad ties, while the latter is to be determined by the speed in which plumbers manage to cater to the individuals still having yet to put in their meters.

As promised, Gossman took it upon himself to research a different means of acquiring keyless entry for the doors of the fire department.  After contacting Caledonia Lumber and discovering their inability to accomplish this, a company out of La Crosse was approached.  Receiving a bid higher than that of the initial business turned down for its lofty expense, Gossman proposed merely buying keypad locks, sealing the doors to the best of their capacity, and budgeting for the update to occur in future years.

Frustration was evident among the council in the service of TLB Wireless Internet.  Having received no response to two emails sent directly to the general manager, both Melander and Mayor Donivee Johnson simultaneously remarked that the affair is “in their court now.”

Letters have since been sent out to those demonstrating the need to better sustain their yards.  At this time, two of the four are in the hands of an attorney.  Furthermore, one of 10 unlicensed vehicles have been successfully removed.

On the topic of new business, the concerns of the Vulnerability Assessment & Emergency Response Plan, liquor license renewal for ZZ Tap, and offering of prizes again for Christmas house decorating were all universally approved.

Two building permits, or now formally referred to as land use permits, were discussed, the first relating to a 34’x17’ model to be constructed for Mike and Cindy Shanks.  Gossman’s own was also revisited, though no problems with existing buildings or dimensions were detected.  However, because the construction and institution of this storage building is set to occur on a residential zone, the measures of a public hearing, rezoning, and a petition may be necessary.  The issue and its subsequent actions will continue upon the formal obtaining of the property by Gossman.

As a means of donation by David Terbeest, a set of 20 chairs along with a chair holder have been offered to the city.  Nordsving articulated that room available for storage is limited at best as of now, though such will improve upon the removal of some particular pictures to the Presbyterian Church, and that a mere 10 chairs could suffice.  Nonetheless, deliberating of the unknown condition and lack of depository, members voted to first determine the overall state of the furniture.

Insinuated by the American Legion itself, a new door for the chair storage room at the town hall is also to be pursued, as the current one offers no convenience in retrieving items out of the room.  With all involved aspiring to achieve a reasonably priced custom-made door, Councilmember Charlie Warner recommended Kevin Scrabeck of Hahn Lumber for the job.  As enunciated by Warner, perhaps even Joe, the enterprise’s owner, could help.

Lastly, Gossman made known, as desired among a few area inhabitants, concerns about “Open” signs and blankets hung by Amish blocking view of traffic at one of the city’s intersections.  Though providing no reassurance towards the resolving of the latter, Johnson confirmed that she had spoken with those of the lumber yard the previous week and that the preceding would be taken care of.

The next Canton City Council meeting will be held at Canton City Hall on November 8, at 6 p.m.