The Peterson Council gave a verbal blessing to Councilor Gail Boyum to seek cost estimates for a proposed project. At the June 11 meeting, Boyum indicated she is entertaining the idea of putting in diagonal parking on the north end of Centennial Street.
Boyum owns two lots west of the intersection of Centennial Street and Mill Street as of January this year. Behind them lies a dead-end roadway, extending west from Centennial Street, which the city has been using as an established road for more than 30 years, according to Public Works’ Chris Grindland.
“People are parking by the memorial garden and blocking the view,” noted Boyum.
In the area, there is a swale and a mound, from soil dug out of the street, that would need leveling. Boyum would also like to put in a retaining wall, at her expense, on the property. She’s asking for the city to contribute by putting gravel in. It’s expected that cost estimates will be presented at the next meeting. The intention, if the project moves forward, is to use a local contractor.
In other news, the council officially approved the expansion of the Poultry Ordinance to allow for ducks. Residents may a maximum number of 10 birds on their property, regardless of what type of poultry, however, only chickens and ducks are allowed. Geese, turkeys and other fowl are prohibited.
The city received an audit report letter noting a clean audit.
“There were no surprises,” said Grindland. “It’s the same two findings every time because we’re so small.”
The council approved the report unanimously.
Public Works is working to complete all spring-started touch-ups around the city. This includes mulching gardens in the veterans park, repairing potholes, and keeping the softball field, which is being used nearly daily, in good shape. Utilities continue to run well including operations at the waste water treatment plant.
“The museum looks good if you haven’t seen it,” said Councilor Kristina Grindland to the council.
“The bandstand area looks great,” added Boyum. “You’ve done some wonderful things there.”
Mayor Chris Stenzel noted Public Works Director Jeff Rein has been with the city for a little over three months and there are no concerns with his employment.
“He seems very happy to be here,” he said. “He’s a go-getter, that’s for sure. He’s got plans.”