The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Stronghurst Board Discusses Water Issues

By: Shirley Linder, Quill Editor

At the August 2nd Village of Stronghurst board meeting Craig and Karen Colby told board members they were tired of the water standing in their back yard.

Apparently the water is not draining away into the culverts as it should and causing a pond in their yard. Ronnie Gittings said it was due to culverts under the drive way at the former Katie Riley's home, which is on private property.

During the discussion Amanda Van Arsdale said she owned that property and was unaware there was a problem. Gittings said he would look into the situation and let Van Arsdale know what is needed to help correct the problem.

A bid from Laverdiere Construction was submitted for the water main replacement for two blocks on North Street.  Laverdiere will furnish equipment and labor at a cost of $5,600 per day, estimating 2 ½ to 3 days.

However, Gittings predicts it will be closer to 4 days as they have 5 sewer lines to cross and 8 water lines to install back into the main line. The bid was approved.

Gittings also reported that all the new water meters and end points have been installed. There is a total of 383 meters in town. A proposal was presented to buy 50 more meters at a cost of $23,583. The purchase was approved.

The police report for July included: 70 hours worked; 447 miles on squad car; 2 verbal traffic warnings; 9 service calls; 3 verbal warnings for trash; 1 arrest.

In other business the board approved:

• Financial report of $34,096.12 to the good,
• Minutes; Payment of all bills,
• The new village zoning map at a cost of $2,000,
• The tax levy ordinance,
• The 2020/2021 audit,
• Clerk Hollie Allen working on signing up for the American Rescue Plan Act Fund which could be $107, 259.98, designated for water projects. If approved they would receive half of the money in 30 days and the other half a year later,
• Closing water tower fund,
• Spray park being open during fall festival, weather permitting.

Those present included:

Mayor Brendan Schaley; Trustees, Mike Bohnenkamp, Janice Smith, Amanda Van Arsdale, Mike Swisher, Randy Jarvis, (Shane Reed absent);

Employees, Ronnie Gittings, Arbry Vancil, Hollie Allen;

Guests, Doug Erickson, Karen Colby, Craig Colby, Virginia Ross, David Knutstrom, Shirley Linder- Quill editor-reporter.

The board adjourned at 6:40 p.m.

The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, September 7th at 6 p.m. at the Stronghurst Village Hall on Main Street.