9 September 2002 | Approved: 14 October 2002
Public Hearing on Lowering the Town Speed Limit
Mayor John Compton called the public hearing to order at 7:38 p.m. In attendance were Councilors Darrell Anderson, Betsy Klinger, Peggy Odick, David Stopak, Nick Suzich and Treasurer, Mary Challstrom. Also present were; Charlie Challstrom, Brenda Gumula, Dave Gumula, Joli McCathran, Ken McCathran, Bob Evans, Kathie Evans, John McClelland, Jenny Long, Don McCathran and Wanda Simms. Mayor Compton explained why he and Town Attorney, Bill Roberts, believe that the Town could legally reduce the speed limit from 25 mph to 15 mph without jeopardizing our State road revenue and enforceability by the County. Darrell Anderson asked if the speed could change throughout the Town. Don McCathran stated that 15 mph is too slow and illogical. Mr. McCathran also expressed concerns about the credibility of the Town. A discussion ensued about the origin of the idea, pedestrian safety, signs, and the need for a traffic safety study to justify the change. Nick Suzich moved and David Stopak seconded a motion to adjourn the Public Hearing until the traffic study and enforcement questions were addressed. Vote: 5 – 0. Mayor John Compton called the regular meeting of the Town Council to order at 8:17 p.m.
Approval of Minutes
Peggy Odick moved, Darrell Anderson seconded, that the Town Council minutes of August 12, 2002 be approved. Vote: 5-0.
Treasurer’s Report
Peggy Odick moved, Darrell Anderson seconded, that the Treasurer’s report be accepted. Vote: 5-0.
Public Appearances
John McClelland, Chairman of the Planning Commission, talked about the Town Survey of Block 17. There was a discussion of boundary vs. house location survey and encroachments on Town land. Wanda Simms from Emory Grove Church came to ask about a fence permit. Joli McCathran expressed her opinion about the new hourly rates for the rental of McCathran Hall. The community service exchange for fees was also discussed. Mayor Compton suggested the possibility of a Town fund from which qualified groups could draw. More discussion.
Peggy Odick moved and David Stopak seconded that the revised resolution for Regulations for the Use and Rental of McCathran Hall be adopted. Vote: 5-0.
Mayor’s Announcements
Mayor Compton announced the following:
- Labor Day was a huge success. We had the largest participation ever.
- A meeting about the Deer Park Bridge is scheduled for Sept. 25, 2002. Darrell Anderson and Ned Helme will go on the Town’s behalf.
Update on Casey Fields at Mill Creek:
- Mayor Compton showed the newest plan that was presented to MNCPPC at the beginning of September.
- MNCPPC will retain the "Upper Field" and a 30ft. Right-of-way along the lower part of Ridge Road.
- Mayor Compton knows that this plan may not be everything that the Town desires and suggested that we find points of agreement and agree to disagree on some other points. Lots of discussion ensued.
- Mayor Compton also suggested that an all-Town mailing be done. This could include a copy of the current plan and a letter from the Mayor, which stated the Council’s position. Mayor Compton believes that the Town should mobilize.
Council Reports
Maintenance & Intergovernmental
John Tomlin was absent. Jim Fletcher’s report was read by John Compton. The Andrews’ tree was discussed. Darrell Anderson said that he would write a letter concerning the findings of the Town arborist and about pruning the tree in question.
Playgrounds & Contracts
Nick Suzich reported that the leaf contractor is a “go” and we should be receiving a signed contract soon. He also reported that the snow removal contractor has not returned his phone calls. Nick asked for a Special Trash pick-up reminder in the Bulletin and for more information on the Town’s commitment to Program Open Space. Discussion.
Planning Commission
Darrell Anderson reported on the Town Survey. Should Mr. Snider continue? A discussion ensued. This should go on next month’s agenda.
Public Safety & Maple Lake
David Stopak announced the installation of the new upper gate at Maple Lake. David also expressed his concern about “stranger danger” and the fact that the Town is not immune to this issue.
Recreation, Website & McCathran Hall
Betsy Klinger reported that the Recreation Committee would like $500.00 for the party for Mary Challstrom. The website is going well. McCathran Hall needs a window, a lock on the Recreation Committee closet and a method to keep the upper sash of the windows closed. Mayor Compton said that Jim Fletcher could do the window pane replacement.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:37 p.m.