The Village of Scandinavia Board members convened on July 11 to discuss and make important decisions on various matters affecting the community. The meeting, chaired by President David Mork, included several significant agenda items that were addressed by the attending members.
During the meeting, key decisions were made, including the acceptance of the resignation of Renee Smith as Clerk and the subsequent appointment of Kati McDermith as the new Clerk. The motion to appoint McDermith was carried unanimously and was followed by the signing of the oath and necessary documentation.
Additionally, the board members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding proposed guidelines for public comment during meetings. Trustee Hayes proposed the guidelines, which were subsequently approved with a requirement for a public comment card, addressing concerns about orderly discourse during public comment sessions.
Parking concerns
The board also deliberated on matters related to winter parking regulations, temporary alternate side-of-street parking, and potential options for the Village’s right-of-way adjacent to a property at 305 North Main Street. The board expressed concerns about insurance and liability implications in these matters and decided to meet with Attorney Krystle Flanscha to gather more information.
A motion made (Morgan) to approve alternate side-of-street parking during winter months. Trustee Morgan read an example and potential winter parking ordinance. The Board discussed concerns and questions and agreed to try it for one winter season. A motion was made (Morgan/Hayes) to approve temporary alternate side-of-street parking on Norse Street between Nov. 15, 2023, and April 1, 2024. The motion carried unanimously.
Trustee Morgan reports that the Town of Scandinavia offered to sell the Municipal Center Storage Garage (aka “bus garage”) to the Village for $1 to be used as a public parking area.
Furthermore, discussions about potential parking solutions, adoption of an Outdoor Dining Ordinance, and the condition of the Municipal Center were held. The proposal to acquire the Municipal Center Storage Garage from the Town of Scandinavia for public parking purposes was discussed, pending further information.
The Village Board also granted several permits and licenses, including “Sidewalk Use Permits” and “Street Privilege Permits.” Notably, the Village was designated as a butterfly sanctuary, and mowers were advised not to mow the area along 49 next to Silver Lake Wayside.
Sewer/Lagoon
During the recent board meeting, the committee discussed several important matters related to the sewer/lagoon system and made decisions accordingly. The following summarizes the key points of the meeting:
Repair and Maintenance: The board has approved the repair and erection of windmills in the sewer/lagoon area. An issue with a leaky shut-off valve at a lift station was identified, and Brian has been tasked with obtaining repair quotes.
CMAR Resolution: Deputy Clerk and Treasurer Judy Watson presented the CMAR (Comprehensive Annual Maintenance and Repair) Resolution. Following a motion (Morgan/Hayes), the resolution (Resolution #23-03) was unanimously approved.
Storm Water Erosion: Erosion caused by storm water near a lift station was discussed.Trustee Hayes reported initial efforts to fill in the erosion, with more work needed.
Sewer Operator Position: The board is actively searching for a replacement Sewer Operator.Brian Boutwell will continue until a replacement is found, and Trustee Hayes is pursuing a potential lead.
DNR Dam Inspection Proposals: The board reviewed Dam Inspection proposals required by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).Ayers quoted $3,530 for the inspection, while VPI Engineering’s quote was $1,700.President Mork will discuss Davey’s quote details and timeline.
These decisions and actions reflect the ongoing efforts to maintain the sewer system’s functionality and compliance.
IN other business, the Board granted temporary alcoholic beverage licenses to the Scandinavia Booster Club and an Operator’s License to Sliced Pizza.
In concluding the meeting, the board reviewed ongoing projects and made arrangements for a joint meeting with the Town of Scandinavia in September 2023. The meeting was adjourned at 6:29 p.m. after a motion was carried unanimously.