Ellendale fire department move on schedule

During the March 12 Ellendale city council meeting, it was announced that residents who believe the assessed value of their homes is in error will have a chance to appeal during a board of equalization open book meeting from 1 to 3 p.m. on April 8. Spring equalization meetings of this type are the one time a year property owners can appeal the recorded market value of their homes, which is a fundamental number in determining their property taxes.  

 

Fire chief Logan Busho reported the process of moving into the new fire hall is on schedule; he stated that, thanks to numerous donations, which include items such as chairs, tables, white boards, and more, the setup is proceeding in fine style. He also reported there were two fire calls in the past month; both were for accidents which occurred on the interstate. Busho requested council approval for two truck repairs, which cost, respectively, $1,600 and $2000. The fire department also requested $2,040 for 10 tables and 28 chairs. 

 

His report summarized a new arrangement which will save the department quite a bit of money over time. Firefighters are required to pass an annual FIT test ensuring their safety as they wear hefty self-contained breathing apparatus into dangerous environments. In the past, the department has paid up to $500 to rent the necessary testing equipment. The Waseca fire department purchased the expensive equipment with the assistance of some grant money; the arrangement is that area departments will each pay a one-time $1,000 portion of the amount not covered by the grant, and then will be able to use the equipment for about a month each year into the indefinite future. Busho stated that under this system the arrangement will pay for itself by year two, with little or no cost in subsequent years.

 

City maintenance supervisor Josh Otto reported his department has purchased four new tires and four new rims for the city-owned maintenance truck at a cost of about $1,500. There was also discussion of purchasing a new 75-gallon tank and pump for the back of the maintenance truck at a cost of $500.

 

The council voted to amend the master fee schedule, changing the fire service first response fee from $750 to $1,000.

 

Regarding the new Stadheim Apartment complex under construction at the west end of town, council members believe at least 10 units are being filled with 12 still available.

 

During public comment, resident Laura Kreinke advised the council to, “Cut those three trees over by the restrooms down in the park as soon as possible.”

 

Mayor Scott Groth congratulated the NRHEG girls’ basketball team for advancing to the state tournament. He commented that the recent Ellendale business owner “square table” discussion meeting went well. Groth also suggested the city should buy five American flags at a cost of about $50 each to display in celebration of the country's 250th year this July 4.