Latimer discusses park rules

The Latimer City Council met on Wednesday, August 11 for their regular meeting at the Latimer Community Center.

At the meeting, it was noted that election papers will soon need to be filed for the upcoming election. Mayor Mark Johansen and council members Catherine Crooks and Eric Bruns will be up for re-election this year.

Looking to keep the town clean, the council discussed local businesses that need to get their weeds under control. They also brought up introducing a littering ordinance, particularly in regard to the city park.

One idea to help keep the park clean was to implement a security deposit to those renting out the shelter, however it was pointed out that the recent issues with garbage aren't coming from those who are renting the shelter in advance.

Usage hours were also discussed, to limit people using the park late at night.

"If it happens again we might have to do something," said council member Landon Plagge.

In a related matter, amending the noise ordinance was also discussed. While the city does have a noise ordinance in place, there is no specified time attached to it. A time of 9:00 p.m. was suggested.

In other business, the council agreed to increase their annual donation to the CAL Golf Tournament from $800 to $1,500.

City Clerk Melissa Simmons reported that the city is receiving $9,500 grant money for tech upgrades. Simmons suggested putting the funds towards water service tracking technology.

The council also discussed purchasing an automatic door for the community center. A self-opening door can be installed for approximately $4,000 and the city will be looking to utilize as many outside funds as possible to pay for it.

For another upcoming project, the council discussed the city water tower and it's upcoming repainting. Council member Plagge suggested that the city take the opportunity to make a unique design for the water tower that would catch the eye. Ideas like making the tower look like a giant golf ball or soy bean were discussed.

Finally, the council approved a 3% raise for City Maintenance Director Wayne Pralle.