The Ox Cart Wins the Vote
- Trinity Gruenberg
- 52 minutes ago
- 2 min read
by Trinity Gruenberg
The Verndale City Council held their regular meeting on October13.
Public Works
Public Works Supervisor Matt Uselman reported on the need to replace a malfunctioning crosswalk flasher on the west side of town. After consulting with MnDOT, he learned that the city is responsible for the flasher’s maintenance and replacement. A new solar-powered flasher costs $2,629. The council discussed whether to replace one or both flashers, ultimately deciding to replace only the broken one for now.
Uselman requested approval to purchase cement blocks to build a bin for salted sand at the city shop. He explained that last year the sand was stored directly on the ground, and the new bin would improve storage. The estimated cost for the blocks was around $1,500. The council approved the purchase.
Uselman provided an update on a tax-forfeited property at 101 11 First Avenue Northwest. The city requested first rights to acquire the property from the county. The parcel was removed from the county’s auction for city consideration.
The options for the property: if used for public purposes, the city could acquire it for free, and could put in a pickleball court; if intended for resale, the city would need to purchase it. He noted that some residents had expressed interest in buying the property and that it could be suitable for various uses, including a small house or business. The council decided to wait for more information on the purchase price before making a decision.
He presented options for the new city sign, asking the council to choose between designs featuring an ox cart or a train. The council picked the ox cart. He is working on permission from BNSF to install the sign...
