Hartland council considers splash pad

During their regular meeting on March 3, members of the Hartland city council discussed three projects they would find beneficial: a new community center, a new fire hall, and a “splash pad,” a large-scale unit which allows children to play in sprayed or splashed water, but does not require a lifeguard. No plans were made or finalized, but consideration of the topics is ongoing.

Regarding upgrades underway at the city little league field, Mayor Kelly Routh requested that the water fountain scheduled to be installed at the field’s concession stand should be capable of refilling water bottles.

Council members learned the common areas of the city community center, where city council meetings are held and the Post Office has been located since the 2023 tornado, should be cleaned and maintained by the city council. This includes stocking bathrooms, sweeping, mopping, and the like. Post Office staff has been performing these tasks for some time.

Council members confirmed the annual fee for a city tobacco license is $75, payable by March 15.

A few city residents raised questions regarding the long-standing understanding that city residents should not have more than two dogs kept within city limits. They noted there are people keeping more than two, and asked whose responsibility it is to enforce the restriction, since the “honor system” does not seem to be effective any longer. Residents also asked whether anything can be done about properties which have “too much” clutter on their lawns. Routh told the residents she would look into both matters and report back to the council.

At 6:30 p.m. April 7, before the Hartland City Council meeting, the Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce will be sending Jean Eaton of Age Friendly Freeborn County to put on a presentation for keeping seniors active. Eaton also visits the senior center in Hartland as well to demonstrate how the elderly can stay active. This is an effort to keep local seniors in their homes, doing so will extend ages and keep spirits up.