At the May 28 meeting of the Chatfield City Council, a public hearing was held on the proposed ordinance # 472 to regulate the use of special vehicles within the city limits.
The ordinance as proposed requires a permit to operate special vehicles on public streets and public areas. A provision is included for the issuance of a disabled permit in certain instances. Enforcement provisions are in the ordinance.
During the public hearing, Pat McGowan explained he lives a couple miles out of town; he and his boys like to use a side-by-side to come into town. He was concerned by what he considered unnecessary regulations in the proposed ordinance, including speed limit restrictions and the requirement of helmets for kids.
Councilors then discussed the provisions in the proposed ordinance. Mike Urban said he shared McGowan’s concerns over speed limits, seat belts and helmets for kids. Josh Broadwater agreed that kids should not be required to wear a helmet, but noted state law requires them for kids.
Paul Novotny stated he agreed with the regulations spelled out in the golf cart portion of the proposed ordinance but took issue with the requirement for Chatfield residents to have a sticker from the city. If you live in Chatfield, you need a sticker, but if you live outside the city, you don’t need a sticker; it doesn’t make sense. Novotny expressed his concern over any liability issues for the city.
The possibility of allowing kids (14 and over) to drive a golf cart after completing a class was also discussed. Broadwater suggested looking at lowering the age limit later after a golf cart ordinance is approved. The ordinance could be amended if they can figure out a way to allow underage drivers.
Broadwater suggested there should be two separate ordinances; one for golf carts and the other for ATVs and UTVs.
City Administrator Michele Peterson said the language for the golf cart portion will be amended and brought back for the council’s consideration. The new language will be put on the website before the city council considers it at a meeting. She said amending the ATV and UTV portion will take longer to rewrite.
Property Purchase
Peterson explained the Minnesota Department of Transportation has offered to convey property to the city for $150,000. The payment must be received before November 22, 2024. The property (4.22 acres) is to be the location for a Public Works facility and is located at the north end of town along Winona St. (CR 5). Approval was granted to accept the conveyance as offered. Urban voted no.
Other Business in Brief
•The second reading of Ordinance 473 Solid Waste Amendment was approved. The amendment requires most properties (single-family residential properties) to use city approved contractors for solid waste disposal service. Commercial, industrial, multi-family, and mixed-use properties may use a different contractor, if that contractor has been approved by the city council.
•Brad Berge has requested approval to hold a softball tournament in Mill Creek Park on June 8 and 9. The request includes the sale of concessions. The men’s slowpitch tournament would be a fundraiser to help fund a trip to Nationals in August to be held in Topeka, Kans. Berge hopes 12-16 teams participate in the tournament. The permit required for concession sales was approved.
•A resolution was adopted to accept a donation in the amount of $1,262.80 from People’s Energy Cooperation Trust. The funds are to be used for frisbee golf signs in the city park.
•Peterson recognized police officer Kevin Landorf for his nine years of service.
•Mayor John McBroom announced that the ambulance crew has received an award from the state.
•The swimming pool opens on June 1.
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