Village council tackles street repairs and junk property violations

Village council discussed a wide range of topics at its most recent meeting, including two recurring concerns: the condition of village streets and the number of junk properties.

Village Administrator Don Writesal told council that another pump went down at the water tank but said he had ordered a replacement and still had a spare. He also reported that crack sealing has been completed on several roads.

Mayor Mike Pelegreen said the village has received about 10 applications for street paving positions, and interviews have begun. He noted that the section of roadway leading up to the basketball cage is in fair condition but showing cracks.

Part of the repair work includes $2,100 for cold patch and more than $7,600 for chip and seal, bringing the total cost for the stretch to more than $9,000. Pelegreen said the work, from High Street to Central Street where buses once parked, will likely be delayed until spring. Most of the crack sealing around town has been completed except on Long Drive and Village Street, at a total cost of about $20,000 to $25,000.

Council also discussed junk vehicles and property maintenance. One vehicle was finally removed following direction from Village Solicitor Jenna Hokes. Another property on E Street was discussed because of complications gathering the required information.

“I’ve got to get Social Security numbers, and that’s going to be a problem,” Hokes said. “Even if I charge them, the maximum I can charge is a minor misdemeanor. For every day the violation continues, I can add another fine, but I’m never going to be able to put them in jail.”

Pelegreen said his main concern was seeing the property cleaned up. Hokes agreed but explained that she would only be able to obtain a court order requiring payment.

“I’ll just get an order saying they owe the village a bunch of money,” she said. “But I’m never going to get an order where I can actually go in and remove the stuff.”