The Canton City Council discussed possibilities for an updated military memorial at their regular meeting on December 14.
Canton resident Nick Prestby attended the meeting and asked the council for their thoughts on moving the military memorial in town to in front of the gazebo. He provided a preliminary sketch to illustrate some of his ideas, but told the council that the details can be discussed and decided upon later. He did not have any numbers yet, noting that he wanted to see if the project would have the council’s support before moving forward.
His proposal consists of flags representing the different branches of the military displayed in a landscaped area along the sidewalks in front of the gazebo, with the memorial stone in the middle. He pointed out that the location on Main Street would be much more visible than the current location. Prestby added that the Legion may be willing to contribute or fundraising could be done to help with the cost.
The council was enthusiastic about the idea and told Prestby that he could start looking into the details. They will pass a motion approving the project once specifics have been agreed upon.
Other business
Mayor Donivee Johnson informed the council that a check for $1,600 was left with the county auditor to pay for the property next to city hall. It was noted that there are assessments for taxes and maintenance on the property, but they would not be repaid from this sale. Councilmember Charlie Warner questioned why they would pay the full $1,600 when the city has $1,300 in assessments for maintaining the property over the last several years. This sparked many questions about what happens with assessments and whether it was a fair price for the property. There were not clear answers for many of those questions and Mayor Johnson stated that it would have to be discussed with the county commissioners. The subject will be revisited at the next meeting.
The council reviewed the updated 2017 budget and passed a motion setting the levy at 4.5%. It did not include any addition to the fire hall, as there is more information needed before it can be planned and budgeted.
City employee Jon Nordsving reported that he had been able to find a replacement truck. The new truck cost $5,034.75 and he asked the council what he should do with the old truck. It was agreed that he should try to sell it for the best price they could get on Craig’s List.
Nordsving also noted that the ice skating rink had been flooded, but the ice was not yet thick enough for skating. He added that there were signs posted warning people to stay off of it, but it would be ready soon. When the signs are removed it will be open for skating.
Two of the water meters proposed by Robroy Kelly at last month’s meeting have arrived. Nordsving needs to find a place for them and will get them installed. They will serve as a trial of the alternative type of meter suggested by Kelly before the city decides which to purchase.
Residents living on Main Street should be aware of the city’s 24-hour snow removal policy. If we get an inch or more of snow, ice or debris, it must be cleared from the sidewalks on Main Street. There is no policy for where vehicles should be parked during a snow event, however if residents have anything in the street that may interfere with plowing, they will receive a letter from the city asking that it be moved. If the city has to do the work on your behalf, it will cost $65 per hour, with a minimum of one hour.
The next regular meeting of the Canton City Council is on Wednesday, January 11, at 7 p.m. at Canton City Hall.
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