Lincolnville council meets in new city hall
Lincolnville City Council met for the first time Monday in the newly-acquired city hall at 218 W. Main.
The former Lincolnville Clinic building was purchased in March from Marion County Hospital District #1.
The council met in the small foyer. Plans are being made to tear out several walls and create a meeting room.
Changes required by the state include reversing the front door so that it swings out, posting handicapped parking signs, marking a handicapped parking spot, and installing an emergency light to illuminate doorways.
The council passed a motion to locate the city telephone and fax machine at city hall. The current number is (620) 924-5488. Another line will be added.
The council discussed a request from Perry Gutsch, manager of the Agri Producers, Inc., (API) grain elevator at Lincolnville, to establish a truck route to and from the elevator. The route would run straight south of the scales to 290th (Lincolnville-Durham road).
Everyone agreed the new route would save wear and tear on regular city streets. A few issues will be addressed before action is taken at the May meeting.
The council approved a resolution to assist residents in replacing dilapidated sidewalks along city streets. Residents whose requests are approved will be reimbursed for purchase and delivery of concrete material. According to streets chairman Sherri Pankratz, two or three residents per year could receive assistance.
Clerk Jane Pigorsch announced the city received $4,450.69 in emergency funds from FEMA. The mayor suggested the money be spent to replace the city's dump truck.
City employee Joe Vinduska received compliments for his work in redoing a side section of Fifth Street. Pigorsch announced that Lester Tajchman donated $100 in appreciation. He parks semi tractor-trailers along that street.
Bids were opened on the sale of the city's property at 512 Wichita. Travis Burns submitted the high bid of $2,600. Agri Producers Inc., submitted a bid of $500. Burns' bid was accepted.
The council voted to close out the Lincolnville Ball Association account and roll the balance into parks and recreation.
County commissioner Dan Holub briefly attended the meeting and explained the difference between the county's neighborhood revitalization plan and the state's Enterprise Zone plan.
The revitalization plan provides for property tax abatement on expanded or new construction. Property owners in designated enterprise zones can qualify for lower-interest loans and some tax relief. No action was taken.
Holub encouraged people to attend the public hearing on zoning April 26 at Marion Middle School. He said it is their one and only chance to provide input.
Senior citizens chairman Evelyn Matz announced a Mexican dinner will be served April 13 at Friendship House. The meal is free to all but donations are accepted.
Dave Schneider reported progress at the community building. Insulation and air-conditioning ducts will be installed soon, followed by sheet-rocking and plumbing.
After an inspection of the building, the state fire marshal set a maximum occupancy of 210. He mandated purchase of a special fire extinguisher for the kitchen.
According to Pigorsch, Gary Diepenbrock donated money for a serving table and API donated money for bricks.
The Lincolnville Community Center telephone number is (620) 924-5613.
