Council looks at plans to improve the building structure in Laurel
Two hearings took place before the regular City Council meeting Monday.
The first was for the purpose of hearing support, opposition, criticism, suggestions or observations of taxpayers relating to the proposed budget.
Mike Pommer, city auditor, went over the budget with the council, noting the mill levy is going to decrease. The budget disbursements will be down from last year, as well. A copy of the proposed budget was published in the Advocate earlier this month.
The hearing to set the final tax request was for the purpose of hearing support, opposition, criticism, suggestions or observations of taxpayers relating to setting the final tax request at a different amount than the prior year tax request. Following discussion, the council voted to approve the resolution.
Following the two Hearings, the Council approved the proposed budget for the 2006-2007 fiscal year.
At the regular Council meeting the Council approved the Sexual Predator Residency Ordinance. This ordinance complies with the state ordinance.
Lonnie Dixon and Omar Correa, representing Hanna-Keelan Associates, addressed the Council about doing a Blight Sub Standard Study. They would work with city staff to plan for redevelopment of deteriorating buildings and the development of new structures. They look at deteriorating areas and also at long range improvements to be made.
The communities then use their own resources to update structures. The study they do usually takes from 60-90 days and would cost $11,000. A previous study was done by another firm, but it was not comprehensive enough for large projects. The Council decided to get more information and discuss this matter at the October meeting.
Dan Kuhlman, representing Huntel, reported to the Council on the cable service here. He said they are working to keep that, as well as 50 Internet customers, running efficiently in Laurel.
Kelsie Ryan, Administrator at Hillcrest Care Center, reported the Assisted Living center is full. The Council went on to commend Ryan for the good work being done in the Care Center, noting a number of major projects have been completed in the last 18 months.
Jeremy Quist, from the Ambulance/Fire Dept, reported there have been 10 calls since the last council meeting. He noted there are now three medical flight attendants living in Laurel.
Del Hemsath presented the budget and work plan for the Tree Board. He noted some of the accomplishments of the Board in the last year. Among them are 250 trees and shrubs planted, and removal of 27 trees that were dying. A Memorial Tree Walk is being planned for the walking trail, where residents can plant trees in memory of a loved one. A plaque will be placed by them noting who the tree is in memory of.
Hemsath also reported a number of trees in the Lion’s Club Park have died and been removed. They are hopeful the Lion’s Club will help replace them.
He also reported the gazebo on the walking trail, donated by the school, is in need of some repair.
Building permits were approved for Melanie Thompson, to replace a driveway ; Stephanie Petersen, an addition to driveway; and Jason Swanson, replace deck.
Cherry Urwiler was approved to replace Donna Buss on the Library Board