Short agenda for city council monthly meeting
By Shelia Tomkins
The Guttenberg city council worked quickly through a short routine agenda when members met for the regular monthly meeting on Oct. 14.
Diana Johnson of Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission spoke at a public hearing on the status of the city's $1.2 million water main improvement project. The hearing was a requirement for the $500,000 Community Development Block Grant that helped fund the project. She noted that the project is currently 98% complete.
In a related matter the council authorized a $120,133 pay request to the water project contractor.
The council okayed a change to the city ordinance regarding "dangerous and vicious" animals. Police Chief Derek Chambers told the council that the change would make the ordinance in compliance with state legislation.
Patrick Helbing, who has purchased a home on Bluff Street, returned to the council table following a request at last month's meeting to purchase city property. The home he purchased is partially located on city property. After reviewing a recommendation from the public works department, the council approved moving forward with his request.
A grant application for the Alluring Waters project received council backing. If successful, the Foundation of Cornerstone Communities grant money would be used toward the lighted Schiller Street gateway entrance from Highway 52 to the downtown area. The proposed design includes two lighted blue pillars and a new Guttenberg sign. The project was spearheaded by Umbrella Arts.
Austin Coon spoke to the council about the city's request for two easements on his property off Acre Street, and his request that the city raise the manhole in that area. The matter was tabled pending discussion with the city works department.
The council approved an update to the city's procurement policy in order for the wording to comply with requirements for an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant.
The meeting concluded with Mayor Fred Schaub administering the oath of office to new police officer Keely Bergman.