City Council Approves Outer Belt West Improvements

The project was awarded to Beniach Construction for $677,946. Included in the project is an extension of the pedestrian and bicyclist walkway along the east side of Outer Belt West, roughly from the Effingham Performance Center to Keller Drive. The project also involves additional lighting along the roadway in that same area. The project is being funded with state grant monies.

The Council discussed, but took no action, on a project that would result in an expanded public property building at Oakridge Cemetery and more storage space at the street and sewer maintenance building along Eiche Avenue. Some existing structures would be taken down at both locations to make room for larger facilities. The work at the cemetery would include an office for the City Sexton as well as a conference room.

The argument for the projects is that other facilities in the city could be eliminated with the property on which they're located sold off by the City.

City Commissioner Don Althoff suggested another type of building to see whether the cost of the project could be lessened, so city staff will research the suggestion before any of the projects move ahead.

City Director of Public Works Steve Miller also reported on the possible obtaining of a solar energy grant that would reduce the City's energy costs. Miller has been working with Tick Tock Energy on the project, including the City owning the system with the hope of increasing the benefits of the program.

City Engineer Jeremy Heuerman reported that bids will be opened on lawn care services for the City on January 3, and that bid forms are still available for those who would like to bid on the work.

The Council approved the issuance of a liquor license to Sporty's Beverage Connection to allow expansion of their Keller Drive location. The new license allows tasting of beverages at the location. Mayor and Liquor Commissioner Jeff Bloemker said the business will grow by 500 square feet to accommodate the tasting area.