The City of Milbank has agreed to partner with Grant County Development Corporation in funding a regional community recognition program known as “First Impressions.” The issue was among the top business items brought up for consideration during last (Monday) night’s regular monthly meeting of the Milbank City Council. Grant County Development Corporation Executive Director Bobbie Bohlen says the program gives economic development officials from other communities across the region the opportunity to see first hand what communities like Milbank have to offer from a tourism perspective. Bobbie says her office plans to conduct of survey of the local community to determine areas in which the city can make itself more visible and appealing to those visiting from outside the area. The city of Milbank has agreed to contribute $25,000, which is one-half of the total project cost.
In other business, the council reviewed a request made on behalf of Rita Wellnitz, doing business as Rita’s Home Health Care for the installation of a stop sign at the intersection of 5th Street and 12th Avenue. The owner has expressed concern with the potential risk for young children being struck and seriously injured by passing traffic frequenting the area. Milbank City Administrator Jason Kettwig discussed the possibility of installing a flashing yellow signal at the intersection, rather than placing a new stop sign there due to the fact that stop signs are already prevalent at several other primary intersections within the same general area.
In another matter, Michelle Davis of 305 West 7th Avenue approached the council about a recurring drainage issue involving a neighboring property owner. It was noted that the land in question tends to face slightly down hill from a nearby alley way onto 7th Avenue. It was further noted that a culvert running between the two properties oftentimes tends to overflow, causing a significant amount of water to build up on the Davis’ property. Mayor Pat Raffety noted that the city has generally tried to avoid becoming involved in drainage issues between residential property owners. City Administrator Jason Kettwig further indicated that there is very little the city can do to resolve the issue. However, he did recommend that both property owners work together to resolve the situation in a peaceful manner.
Last (Monday) night, the council also approved the second reading of Ordinance 810, the 2018 appropriations ordinance. The total general fund budget amount is $3,065,925, compared to $2,540,840 in 2017. The proposed increase will help fund several improvements at the airport, as well as several major street projects.
