By Zech Sindt
Photo by Zech Sindt
The Ostrander City Council convened for their monthly meeting on November 7 at 6:30 p.m. All council members were in attendance, including Lyn Massey-Mills, Dan Hellerud, DJ Start, Vernon Thompson, Mayor Pam Kunert, and City Clerk Wendy Brincks.
The acquisition of a new truck for the city dominated the discussion, a topic that has been a recurring theme in council meetings since August. Recognizing the urgent need for a reliable vehicle to handle winter road maintenance, the council had previously allocated $47,000 for the purchase and upkeep of a new truck. However, the recent surge in truck prices has thrown a wrench into their plans.
Council members expressed their frustration with the inflated market, noting that used trucks are now priced almost as high as new ones. Their search for a suitable vehicle has led them to a new 2024 Ford 350 XL, which carries a price tag of $47,000, fully consuming their allocated budget. Adding to the financial strain, the necessary snow plow attachment will cost an additional $10,000.
Determined to find a solution that aligns with their budgetary constraints, the council has decided to postpone the final decision. They plan to conduct further research, exhaust all available options, and explore potential government discounts before committing to the purchase. The looming winter season adds pressure to their deliberations, as a reliable truck is crucial for snow removal and ensuring the safety of Ostrander residents.
The council also reviewed the recent activity report from the Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department. Since the August meeting, Ostrander has generated 33 calls for service. The majority of these calls, 16 in total, were requests for ambulance service. Other incidents included:
- Suspicious activity (two calls)
- Elder abuse or neglect (one call)
- 911 hang-up (one call)
- Civil matter (one call)
- Noise complaint (one call)
- Terroristic threats (one call)
- Welfare check (one call)
- Theft (one call)
- Traffic violation (one call)
- Animal complaint (one call)
- Special events (one call)
- Information request (one call)
- Assault (one call)
- Burglary (one call)
- Fire (one call)
- Criminal damage to property (one call)
The diverse nature of these calls highlights the range of challenges faced by a small community and the importance of effective law enforcement and emergency services.
In other business, the council unanimously approved the renewal of liquor licenses for two local establishments: Susie’s Roadhouse and Wolf’s Den. This routine measure ensures the continued operation of these businesses within the legal framework of the city.
Addressing the need for additional support in managing winter road conditions, the council approved a motion to enlist the help of Darren Start. Start will assist the city’s maintenance department with snowplowing operations when necessary, providing valuable support during potentially heavy snowfall.
Finally, the council addressed the issue of sending out letters to notify residents of an upcoming increase in sewer rates. Residents can expect to see a 5% increase in their sewer bills, bringing the new monthly charge to $55.05. This adjustment is necessary to maintain the city’s sewer infrastructure and ensure the continued provision of essential sanitation services.
The Ostrander City Council meeting adjourned with a commitment to continue working diligently on behalf of the community and to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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