‘West water tower’ and Marketplace advancing

The “west water tower” and advancements toward the MarketPlace construction easements were discussed during the 25-minute regular Waseca city council meeting June 17. 

 

After discussion, the council approved a resolution authorizing and supporting an application for state bonding dollars to assist in the construction of a one-million-gallon water tower. 

 

According to city manager Carl Sonnenberg, this year's bonding is mostly undesignated except for state entities. He said any city work will have to be applied for directly, which is what the council is doing. 

 

Councilmember Jeremy Conrath suggested the council consider doing these things on their own, as there does not seem to be a lot of help from the state yet. Sonnenberg answered that the current utility conservation improvement plan (CIP) dictates all funding for the water tower will be through state or federal grants. He added that the CIP can be adjusted. 

 

Council members also voted to request state bonding dollars to assist in the sanitary sewer clean water inflow and infiltration reduction project. Sonnenberg said it is an ongoing project and that it is important to continue asking for the funding as the city can afford occasional six-figure projects, but cannot afford any which mount into seven or eight figures. 

 

The council also held a public hearing for and approved vacating various easements which crisscrossed the property where the Market Place apartment complex is planned. The water and sewer line in the existing easement is running at an angle that will remain in place. 

 

During administrative reports, Sonnenberg reminded the public after receiving a letter from a resident that the fire and police departments have authority to require an outdoor fire to be extinguished if it becomes a hazard or if neighbors complain.  

 

Councilmember Stacey Schroder reported the fireworks funding goal for Lakefest has been reached and thanked the donors. She also informed those in attendance the Chamber of Commerce office has been relocated next to Suburban Furniture, on the east side of the building. 

 

Councilmember Jeremy Conrath reminded the public of the Fire Department fish fry June 28 from 4-7 p.m.