by Mari Radtke
Isaac Cruz of Cruz Electric from Larrabee proposed a free service to the Sutherland City Council. He explained he has worked out a partnership with MidAmerican Energy to conduct lighting assessments under its “Express Program.” The Express Program targets small cities served by MidAmerican Energy. The program is designed to guide a transition from existing lighting forms such as fluorescent or incandescent to LED lighting. Discounts may be available. The program is also available to small business within a MidAmerican territory.
John Erickson attended to ask Council to consider allowing him to use a former livestock lot between the elevators and a pasture owned by Mark Shriver, to raise a limited number of cows and pigs. The livestock endeavor would take place during April through August. The purpose if for his kids to raise livestock and be more involved with the O’Brien County Fair and 4-H. The request was approved later in the meeting but met with reservations and consideration for some conditions to the permit. According to the approved resolution the permit is awarded to the person, unlike typical grandfathering which goes with a piece of property. The specific property is currently zoned commercial.
Neil Jurgensen attended the meeting to ask about fixes to the sewer line that backed up into several basements during June flooding. He suggested the installation of sensors or alarms if repair is not an option. Council explained there had been no communication of the matter since the July meeting.
Leah Postma, the selected marketing person for the city’s residential lots on the “Williams Property” asked some questions of the Economic Development board. The questions included relocating of power lines that stand currently over what would be front yards and driveways. A discussion of culvert installation for driveways over the ditch was held. No answers were provided, but it was suggested that council and economic development might consider installing utility hookup and passing the cost on to the buyer. It was asked if that might be a convenience for the buyer.
Fire and ambulance members who do not have a physical on file will not be able to work. That is a determination of the workers compensation insurance representative.
Sutherland’s leader of a new Police Chief, Brent Koppie, attended and updated council on how the department is staffed. He shared first names and experience of officers he has recruited to provide law enforcement coverage the city of Sutherland. He assured council there would be complete coverage for Labor Day festivities. Sutherland has been a partner in a 28E with Paullina for law enforcement coverage for several years. The two towns have shared the cost of a 3rd police officer to provide 24/7 coverage for both communities. Retaining staff, certified officer, has proven challenging. According to Sutherland Mayor Kay Gifford, the 28E does not exist presently.
A resolution increasing wages for police officers from $30 per hour to $35 per hour and for a parttime library assistant from $8 per hour to $10 per hour was approved.
Sutherland Implement has a new owner, Devon Jones. Council was asked to block parking spaces in front of the business on Wednesday August 14 for a grand opening. Council approved.
A spirited discussion of the city accepting a donation raised from a cookie walk for use by the Parks Board for trail activity was had. It was decided the money would be deposited with Commercial Club for trail events in Sutherland.
Council selected Monday September 9 for the regular September meeting. It had to be moved due to the Labor Day holiday.