By Shelia Tomkins
The Guttenberg city council at its regular monthly meeting on April 6 heard a presentation on housing inspections, discussed railroad concerns and acted on water utility issues.
Mayor Russ Loven led councilmembers Virginia Saeugling, Fred Schaub, Dave Schlueter, Jane Parker and Steve Friedlein through the agenda. City Manager Mary Willett and City Attorney Michael Schuster were also present.
Lori Brockway from Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission spoke to the council about the UERPC certified building inspector program that Guttenberg can choose to take part in. She said the program covers rental and owner-occupied properties. "The purpose is to assure decent, safe and certified housing," said Brockway. She noted that Guttenberg currently has 38 buildings in observed poor condition. The program does not cover new building inspections. The City of Fayette is currently taking part in the program and Brockway shared information on that community's housing code.
City Manager Willett reported on an idea for public art in the park being proposed by Umbrella Arts and recently presented by Juanita Loven to the park board. The board recommended that a community survey be taken to gather public input, and Willett said she will come up with a list of survey questions.
A public hearing was set for the May 4 council meeting regarding a fine levied against Pronto Market for a tobacco sales violation. The hearing will provide a means for the $300 fine to go into city coffers rather than to the state.