Lansing City Council approves requests for extra services, funds for Fish Days

by B.J. Tomlinson

The Lansing City Council met in regular session Monday night, July 20. After approving the consent agenda, the Council considered a request from the Lansing Lions Club to furnish extra services and funds for Fish Days to be held August 6, 7, 8 and 9. In addition to dumpsters and porta potties, the Council agreed to contribute $500 toward fireworks and $750 for sound systems expenses. Extra police protection and patrols will also be provided. Various streets to be closed for the weekend include John Street from South Front to South Second from 10 a.m. Thursday to 10 a.m. Monday, August 10; Saturday from 6 to 11:30 p.m. North Front Street from Main to Henry will be closed for the Venetian Night and fireworks show; Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Third Street from Center to the south side of the lumber yard will be closed for American Mini Pullers.
The Council discussed a request from a business owner to repair the sidewalk in front of his business. The owner, Tom Gage, wondered if the City would be doing any sidewalk repairs in the near future. After discussion, it was determined that the sidewalk/lighting project was two years down the road; the Council had no objection to Gage going forward with his repairs now, and that he would not be required to repair them again when the Main Street sidewalk/lighting project commenced later on.
The Council reviewed and approved a contract with Skyline Construction to complete the repairs on Mt. Hosmer Road, Westgate and the City maintenance building. The Cost of the projects, not to exceed $72,749.84, is to be paid in a lump sum upon completion, estimated around October 1.
Mayor Mike Brennan reported that a Shaw Street resident had contacted him about repair work. He asked the Council to consider hiring Engineer Roger Mohn to complete a survey, assess the situation and recommend a solution. Brennan said that until the drainage ditch is repaired, other street repairs would be futile. The Council approved the request.
People Service Representative Heath Draeger said the archeologist has completed the assessment of the Columbus Bridge area and determined there are no artifacts in the construction area. The project can now move forward after funding is secured. Draeger also said the two air compressors that have recently been replaced at the water plant are to be sold for $200 each, and that two individuals have expressed an interest.
Main Street Lansing, Mayor Brennan and Councilwoman Deb Volker will be meeting next Tuesday to discuss a proposed increase of five percent in the hotel/motel tax. Brennan said the increase would generate an additional $10,000 annually for City projects.
In other business, the Police Department is considering purchasing two used patrol vehicles rather than one new one. Lansing City Clerk Katie Becker said that one application for a police officer has been received. Lansing Parks Department representative Marlene Duffy reported good attendance at the City pool.