By Mari Radtke
Kelly Topp, Superintendent of Utilities for Paullina reported to the council on Monday January 17 that utility organizations are being advised to purchase certain items such as transformers. Supply chain issues, especially for parts coming from China are difficult to get. That ‘s not expected to change in the near future.
Council expressed satisfaction and the snow removal over the weekend snowfall.
Ryan Harper has accepted the position of Fire Chief. He was sworn in on Monday. His first task is to work with Jared Johnson and update the city’s emergency plan.
City Clerk Sandy Fritz reported to the council the assistance provided to city staff by Hartley staff with repair of a leaning electric pole. She also informed the council that one of the residential lots in Bush Addition has an approaching deadline for improvements with no work done. Current owners are not expecting to meet the requirements.
The second reading of the rezoning ordinance for Rene (Patchy) Johnson’s lot on East Broadway was read and approved. The third ordinance reading was waived. The ordinance will be effective when the ordinance is published.
Dennis and Nelda Werkmeister attended again, in an effort to get rezoning for their property on Grand Avenue. They’ve been working to get the residential property rezoned to C1 commercial. The request was denied by the Zoning board and twice declined by the council. At Monday’s meeting the discussion was based in the language of the zoning book. Both Articles 9 and 22 referenced intent for any rezoning request must be clear prior to changes. Werkmeisters said 2 people are interested in the property for commercial interests. Council stated that if either potential buyer approached either the zoning board or council with specifics they would be more inclined to consider the request.The request was denied.
Mike and Michelle Hohbach spoke about their interest in making an offer on the property at 317 S. Maple. They provided some recent comparable sales and some questions that need clarification before the offer would be formally submitted.The city is currently asking $8000 per lot. The address is 2 lots. The city is asking the project be completed in 4 years. Due to supply availability and cost issues the Hohbachs are asking for 5 years to build 2 houses. They also need to know if any easements for the property exist.
Nate Bremer, Paullina Police Chief explained that he is open to establishing a 28E agreement with the City of Sutherland Police Department. He said there are disadvantages and advantages with a 28E but he felt establishing a new one similar to the one that ended when Jami Webster resigned from Sutherland Police Department would be more of a benefit. No money will change hands. The departments will trade coverages 2 days per week.
Discussion about adopting the electric lineman apprentice program did not land with a decision. Several unanswered questions came out. More research will be done and the program discussed further.