Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey wrote this report.
All members of the Morrison City Council answered roll call on Monday, January 11, 2021, to begin an evening of community concerns. That ended with a renewed challenge for the fast-approaching renovation of Main Street.
City Administrator Barry Dykhuizen reviewed some financing details of the upcoming Main Street renovation, which ignited new challenges on the recommended surfaces of the streets. Alderman Josh West questioned the cost difference of concrete versus blacktop surface ($245,000) and noted the surface life must be figured into the final decision. Accurate funding answers were not available, so the Council voted to reconvene a Special Meeting on Thursday, January 14, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. Questions will be answered on the costs and create an understanding, so a final vote can be taken.
Morrison Police Chief Brain Melton offered his sincere appreciation to everyone’s response to his serious injury and surgery. His report introduced the action the Department will implement, to turn all crime details into a new Crime Reporting Database that maintains a National log of crime information. The legislation establishing the new database also places certification demands on his Department, that must be fulfilled to receive future Federal funding. Chief Melton requested the purchase of an unidentified vehicle that could be used for the improved effort the Department will be making to investigate local crimes. The vehicle purchase was tabled and requested to be included in the 2021-22 budget for consideration.
The Council delayed action to remove a tree from City property at 412 S.Grape Street, as requested by the local resident. Uncertainty of the health of the tree could not be determined at this time. The decision was tabled until the weather improves and the tree’s health can be professionally evaluated.
The new Public Service Building made the agenda again. Alderman Harvey Zuidema presented his research with hopes of providing opportunity for local contractors to provide the labor and materials. The 90 ft. x 200 ft. building will be sent to an Engineer to provide final drawings, so details can be sent out for bids.
Recent ownership change of the property at 103 N.Heaton Street has created an interest in allowing a zoning clearance, that allows both Residential and Commercial facilities on the property. The Council voted unanimously to allow such a zoning agreement be returned to the Zoning and Planning Commission for finalization.
The Council closed with discussion about zoning regulations related to required distances between bars and residences. The Ordinance requires a “100-foot restriction from residential property.” A request has been made to allow a “Gaming” operation to be opened, without changing the “100-foot restriction from residential property.”
The vote will be asked at the Monday, January 25, Morrison City Council meeting, in the City of Morrison Community Room, 307 S. Madison Street, Morrison, IL.
“We will meet in person, but masks and social distancing will be required,” stated Acting City Clerk Scott Vandermyde.