The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
By: Shirley Linder, Quill Editor
David Knutstrom addressed the Village of Stronghurst board on Monday, July 6th, with a complaint regarding the fireworks being shot in Stronghurst. He said he had talked with several other residents who were upset but, for whatever reason, would not speak out to the board. His complaint addressed the fact that fireworks are illegal and that mortar shells and fireworks were being shot two weeks prior to the 4th. He felt it was disrespectful to our veterans, especially those suffering with PTSD. He also mentioned no one ever thinks of the pets that are highly affected by the noise.
Mayor Brendan Schaley said after receiving calls on the 4th, he had gotten in his personal vehicle and drove around telling people to knock it off. Knutstrom said in closing, he hoped by next year there could be something in place to address this issue.
Tania Minkler approached the board inquiring if it would be possible to hold a parade in Stronghurst. She felt that since there is no events being held and the children cannot play in the park, it would be good for the community to have something to look forward to. She gave the dates of Saturday, July 18th or 25th for it to be held. However, after much discussion it was decided this was much too soon to organize an event such as this. Attorney Mariah Wallace said the village could not be involved in any part of it except to close the streets for the parade, because of liability. However, an individual or group has the right to do it. The outcome of the discussion was Minkler would talk with others and see if something could be arranged for a later date.
Ronnie Gittings reported they had two water main leaks on North Division Street and one of them was really hard to find, causing much digging and long hours. He also reported on the seeping streets. He had tried pea gravel but it would not stay on so was putting sand on those streets every day. He said they could use limestone chips that would take care of the oil but it would be dusty. The board said to put the chips on and see if the county would roll it down well.
Gittings reported the spray park has issues and he has talked to the installer who will come and discuss solutions to the problems.
It was decided later in the meeting that due to all the rules and regulations needing to be followed in relation to COVID -19, that the spray park will remain closed for the rest of this year.
Police Chief Arbry Vancil reported, 85 hours worked; 470 miles on squad car; total traffic stops-2, 1 verbal warning, 1 written warning; 1 uniform traffic ticket; 1 notice to appear; 9 service calls (3 assist county; state police, Warren County and BNSF Police); 1 arrest; 20 business courtesy checks.
The board held a special meeting on June 22nd, at which time they voted to hire Connor Woodbury for part time summer help. Connor will work, as needed, at minimum wage.
In other business the board:
Present were: Mayor Brendan Schaley; Trustees, Mike Bohnenkamp, Jerry Nortrup, Amanda Van Arsdale, Randy Jarvis, Mike Swisher, (Shane Reed absent); Employees, Hollie Allen, Ron Gittings, Arbry Vancil (6:45), Attorney Mariah Wallace; Guests, Sara Brown, Doug Erickson, David Knutstrom, Tania Minkler, Kim Doornbos, Shirley Linder
The next regular meeting will be held on Monday, August 3, at 6:00 p.m.