Mayor's Notes

One year as mayor, boy did it go fast!

Some of the things we accomplished this year were:

• Replaced some outdated sewer pipe under the bridge;

• Put a new furnace in the Town Shop so that it can be heated more efficiently;

• Reduced water loss;

• Had our first audit with new auditors;

• Initiated steps to resolve the disagreement regarding the Ekalaka Volunteer Fire Department;

• Repaired Mormon Avenue;

• Implemented the city limit bow hunting;

• Developed a facility use agreement with guidelines for people who want to use Main Street for activities.

Some of our goals for the new year are:

• Update ordinances to better fit a smaller town. We started with Motor Vehicle Ordinances.

• Continue working on flood plain details;

• New bridges;

• Look at funding after legislative Session and see what can be done to work on water sewer infrastructure;

• Continue to support the county in the building of the new hospital;

• Continue to explore building a new fire hall;

• Park development.

The Sheriff’s Department has informed the mayor and council that they are going to start monitoring motor vehicle laws in city limits much closer. Some simple reminders:

• You cannot pull across the double line on Main Street to park on the other side;

• There are only 3 LEGAL U-turns on Main Street;

• There is a quiet zone near the hospital;

Other laws that will be observed are respecting street signs, speed limit, noise ordinances, to name a few.

We were all very sad to lose our grocery store and we send our thoughts to the Jesperson family. Thank you for the years that you did serve the people of Ekalaka and Carter County. We wish the Bransons well in their endeavor. We have heard that perhaps we could have some economic development in regard to much needed housing. We encourage that growth.

We were sad to see Clayton Stieg move on to his new position, but welcome Brenda Fazekas on board. Elston and Kitty continue to go a very good job.

The council encourages the public to ask questions and voice concerns. This is your town and we are here to serve you.