COUNCIL TALKS AIRPORT HANGAR PROJECT

    A proposed airport hangar project and several community matters were discussed at length during the Britton City Council meeting Monday night.
    The council held a detailed conversation about the potential construction of an airport hangar, which would be funded 95% by federal grants, with the city responsible for the remaining 5%. The project may cost between $800,000 and $1 million.
    Questions were raised about how much the city would need to pay upfront before being reimbursed by federal funds. A representative from Helms and Associates, the engineering firm advising on the project, estimated the city’s initial outlay could be around $160,000, with approximately $150,000 to be reimbursed later.
    Finance Officer Jennifer Athey informed the council that a decision would need to be made soon if the city wished to proceed, as preliminary steps must begin in the near future. Mayor Clyde Fredrickson noted that expressing interest would not commit the city to the project but could secure the significant grant opportunity. The council voted to move forward and express interest to Helms and Associates.
    In other business, three ordinances were introduced for their first readings. Ordinance 621 and Ordinance 622 both addressed utility hookups for detached garages. Under the proposed changes, separate water and sewer hookups will not be required for detached garages—unless the garage is used as a separate dwelling. Fredrickson emphasized that maintaining accurate hookup counts is important when applying for grants through the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR).
    Ordinance 623 was also approved for first reading. It would align the city’s general penalty for ordinance violations with state law, which currently sets the fine at a maximum of $500.
    The council convened as the zoning board and approved the second reading of Ordinance 620, which allows Kay Friebel to place a single-wide trailer on Jason Bender’s  property near the railroad tracks on the east side of town, with conditions outlined in the ordinance. The council also approved a plat for the Weber property, though it was noted that the property encroaches further onto city land than previously thought. A new price for the land may be discussed.
    A proposed land swap between the city and Jason Bender was discussed. Bender owns a small parcel north of the ballpark with a concrete slab that could be used for parking. In exchange, the city would transfer land near the sale barn that could be used for 4-H activities. The swap has been appraised, and a public hearing will be required. All parties agreed to proceed.
    The results of the recent Ward 1 city council election were canvassed and confirmed accurate. Challenger Jerome Marlow defeated incumbent Cristy Davidson.
    A brief update was given on the city’s water meter replacement project. No grant funding will be available through the DANR but council members stressed the importance of moving forward. Public Works Supervisor George Flanery will conduct further research.
    The council also addressed overgrowth and encroachment in city alleys, which has caused issues with garbage collection. Fredrickson proposed hiring someone to clean the alleys and billing the affected property owners. A proposal for the cleanup project will be developed.
    Athey reported that only seven golf cart permits have been sold so far. Concerns were voiced about underage individuals operating golf carts around town. Fredrickson noted the city could ask the county sheriff’s office to enforce regulations, as the city already pays for those services. A discussion will be held with the sheriff regarding enforcement expectations.
    A concern was raised about the display of political signs and banners. It was noted that political signs are not permitted on city boulevards and must be removed within seven days after an election, per state law. The city does not plan to take further action, but residents can contact the sheriff’s office if they have concerns.
    The meeting concluded with a closed executive session requested by the pool manager. No action was taken following the session.
    Before adjournment, the council expressed appreciation to outgoing council members Cristy Davidson and Shane Storley for their service.
    The next council meeting is planned for July 14.