At the regular monthly meeting of the Village of Scandinavia Board held on March 11 in the Community Room of the Municipal Center, several significant actions were taken by local officials, most notably the unanimous approval of a Surface Water Grant Agreement, authorization for a memorial bench donation, and zoning project updates across the village.
The meeting was called to order at 5:01 p.m. by President Pro Tem Mike Hayes, standing in for the absent President Dave Mork. Trustees Kelton Wilhite, Kyle Swenson, Daniel Koehler, and Clerk Carol Kraco were in attendance.
Key approvals and discussions
One of the central highlights of the meeting was the 4-0 vote to approve the Surface Water Grant Agreement, signaling the Village’s continued investment in environmental sustainability. This approval positions the community to receive state funds for local water resource projects, an effort aimed at enhancing water quality and managing surface runoff.
Another community-focused motion passed involved offering the Torgerson family a space to donate a memorial bench, a heartfelt initiative honoring local legacy. The two potential locations approved were Sentral Park and Jorgens Park, offering scenic and meaningful public spaces for the installation.
The Board also approved the Scandinavia Public Library’s creative request to place painted rocks along the building, a project designed to beautify the area and encourage community interaction.
Zoning and infrastructure updates
Several properties were discussed under zoning matters:
Legal review continues for properties at 665 N Main and 150 West Street.
Construction at 610 Oak Street appears close to completion, while work at 110 Church Street has slowed.
The 280 Mill Street permit remains incomplete, and 475 Pleasant Street awaits a final generator inspection.
At 625 Pleasant Street, updated inspection documentation is still pending.
Commercial slab forms were recently inspected at Ellison Park as part of the FOSH project, with activity to resume in warmer conditions.
The Friends of Jorgens Park initiative to upgrade electricity requires more details before proceeding due to its Conservancy zoning.
Infrastructure maintenance by ATC and WPL (Alliant) also continued under the terms of previously approved conditional use permits, with activity focused on utility systems running through the village.
Utility and Public Service updates
Regarding public utilities, President Pro Tem Mike Hayes reported that the lift station transponder installation is delayed until the ground thaws, a seasonal concern. Meanwhile, Kyle Swenson offered an update on the ongoing firetruck search, noting that efforts are continuing with no firm outcome yet.
Financial motions and scheduling
The Board approved several routine but important items: Public Depository Resolution #25-01, renewal of the Village’s insurance coverage with McClone Insurance, approval of February and March bills, and verification of Cash Fund Balances by Trustee Wilhite.
Additionally, the Board scheduled the Open Book session for April 22 (9–11 a.m.) via phone or email, and the Board of Review for April 30 (6–8 p.m.) at the Municipal Center.
Trustee Wilhite motioned, and the Board approved retaining Green Boyz for mowing services, maintaining continuity in seasonal village upkeep.
Treasurer Bob Fredy provided updates on tax collections and dog licensing, rounding out a packed agenda that emphasized zoning progress, public space improvements, and continued infrastructure planning.