At the November 23 Chatfield City Council meeting, Deborah and Frederick Gerlach were recognized with the 2020 Heritage Preservation Award.
Each year during Preservation Month (October) someone who has contributed to the restoration and preservation of Chatfield’s history is selected to be honored with this award. The recognition this year was for the couple’s donation of Haven Wall to the city.
Haven Wall along Old Territorial Rd. was built mostly out of limestone over a period of 37 years. The construction began in 1927 and was completed in 1964. George A. Haven, a Chatfield resident, constructed the wall without mortar, embedding a number of artifacts from around the world. A number of historically significant stones from Chatfield’s history are also part of the wall. The wall has been capped with cement.
Most of the 245-foot long wall was constructed entirely by Haven. For the last 70 feet Haven enlisted the aid of Richard Theel.
Mayor Russ Smith called the wall an example of something an individual can do that can carry on for generations in a community. It is forever a legacy that Chatfield will have.
Deborah Gerlach, the late George Haven’s daughter, said, “My family and I are so grateful. I’m happy that it will be preserved for years to come.” Smith added that the donation is greatly appreciated. He thanked the couple on behalf of the city of Chatfield.
Other business in brief
• The first consideration of Ordinance #449 was approved. The ordinance lists the fees charged by the city for various purposes, licenses, or services. A returned check fee will increase from $20 to $30. The temporary on-sale license fee will increase from $25 to $75; this will affect those, like non-profits, who request a temporary license for a period of one to four days. There will be a $5 increase for cat and dog licenses, water rate base monthly fees will see a $1.85 per month increase, and a $3 increase for bulk water per 1,000 gallons. There is a decrease from $50 to $0 for a bulk water hook up fee.
Swimming pool fees also will see some increases, including a $5 increase for swimming lessons and toddler time (preschool lessons) and a $2 increase for each lap swim or aerobics session.
• Approval was given for the updated Personnel Policy effective January 1, 2021. No changes were made to this policy.
• The appointment of Julie Fryer to the Charter Commission was approved.
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