Progress afoot in the city of Waldorf

The most exciting news of interest to come out of the March meeting of the Waldorf City Council was the announcement of a new mural to grace the old “Eisen” building west of the community center. Charlie Barnes gave an impassioned presentation summarizing his desire to help create a Veterans Memorial park display in front of the mural. No action was taken after his presentation, but Barnes’ plan was very positively received. The project will be discussed further in April. 

Coming out of retirement was DeeAnn Britton who filled in for city clerk Sherri Sandry who was gone on vacation. 

Regarding recent maintenance tasks, it was shared that the trimming of alleyway trees has been  completed; an insurance claim has been submitted for damage incurred during the trimming process by a city-owned truck. Repairs to the vehicle will run an estimated $1,000.

In the water report the “rotor rooter tapes” have been viewed and look good.

In response to a request from the fire department, the amount of money it is allowed to spend without first acquiring approval from the city council has been raised to $6,000. Since the council meets only once a month, waiting for authorization was a potential roadblock for making purchases. 

The city of Waldorf is discussing the possibility of building a new fire hall using funds from a potential fire hall facility grant. When something more concrete is available to report on, an update will be provided. 

The council learned that a new emergency siren will cost about $27,000; council members decided to look into possibly acquiring a grant from the USDA to help make the purchase.

The council approved a motion for Mayor Rob Wilkening to “go find the money” via grants for these various projects. 

In the community center, furnace bids have not yet been received. The council approved using Radio Link Internet for their internet needs. 

Mayor Wilkening met with representatives of Xcel energy in mid-March to encourage the company to make new light posts installed within city limits “Christmas light friendly.” Wilkening reported that Xcel was more than happy to oblige, considering the city could use a different energy provider if it chose. 

A material safety data sheet listing every chemical in the community center was complete. This was an OSHA requirement not previously met. 

First Lutheran Church may be getting a fresh coat of paint via a grant whose applications are due by April 15. 

The council approved the 2023 budget a couple months later than scheduled. 

A “vacation,” that is, the removal of easements for a potential alleyway was approved. 

Mayor Wilkening gave an update on the school building in Waldorf, saying it will likely be sold in the coming weeks and that it “will be good for Waldorf.” 

The council asked about a noise limit sign after new puppies in town have become loud enough to be a nuisance. No action was taken. 

Mayor Wilkening also informed the public that there is a wolf on the loose and told everyone to be safe.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.