WESTBROOK, Minnesota (STPNS) --     westbrook — The city moved one step closer to doing a major street project. Mayor Rocky Kolar gave the council a report and  plans from Design Tree Engineering for the council to review.

    Cost savings and proposals by Bonding agent Ehlers, along with project plans were reviewed.

    The next step in the process is to hold a special council meeting July 19. The purpose of  the meeting is to pass a resolution accepting plans and specifications and authorization for advertisement of bids. Resolution calling for a public hearing. Send mailed notices to residents and publish twice in newspaper.



    If all goes as scheduled and planned, work will be done between September  and October 31.

    Mayor Kolar said progress is being made to remove some neglected buildings within the city.

    Police Chief Alan Wahl talked about some of the issues with neglected property and barking dogs. He said, “I am working on it — the issues will not be solved overnight — I know what needs to be done and we will eventually get the issues resolved.”

    Warren  Riddell submitted an offer to the city to deed over a strip of old railroad property to the city. The property abuts the city land that is used for a tree branch and garden refuse site. Riddell also is donating a portion of the property to the DNR.

    The council accepted the offer and will take care of the transfer of the deed.

    Lairdie Kells, pool manager, told the council a new pump is needed for the kiddie pool. Also a self closing latch needs to be installed on the kiddie pool gate. She mentioned a rules sign must be displayed in the main pool area.

    Street Supervisor Dan Joel told the council a new chlorine regulator is needed at the pool. It will cost $1,800. Currently they are using a loaner from the pool supplier for $500. When they purchase a new one the $500 will be applied to the purchase price.

    Harry Baulisch director of Mary and Martha’s Pantry gave a report  to the council. He outlined the usage along with the volunteer hours and an update of cash donations.

    Four building permits were issued. Sheryl Dougherty for a patio and deck at her property on Columbus Ave. LeMoine Jorgenson for a paver patio at his residence on nine and 1/2 street. Keith Burns for a privacy fence and concrete slab on Birch Ave. Shelly Merrick to replace garage door in basement with concrete block wall at her residence on Davis Ave.

    The following persons were appointed election judges the pay was raised to $9.00 per hour. Harry Baulisch, Elsie Riddell, Sharon Timgren, Gwen Kvilhaug, Pastor Rob Adams, and Rachel Christians.

    A gambling permit was issued for the Westbrook  Women’s Club for a raffle.

    Police Chief Wahl noted there are some leaks in the police department roof. The council recommended they be repaired and possibly eventually putting metal over it.

June Police Report:

    One air ambulance. One funeral assist. Five open doors. Assisted Murray County one time. Two tickets issued. One 72 hour detention. Two domestic calls. One accident with charges pending. Magazine sales people removed from town, selling without a license.