Dallas City Council

Dallas City Council Approves Tree Removal

(From the minutes taken by Steven K. Vorhies, City Clerk)

The Dallas City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, March 16, at 5:30 p.m. Mayor Kevin Six called the meeting to order. Commissioners Harold Northup Jr. and Greg Olson were present, while Commissioners Carole McDowell and Peggy Newberry were absent. Also in attendance were City Clerk Steven Vorhies, Anne Thompson Cathie Smith, and Police Chief Scott Rosson. 

The council quickly approved the minutes from the March 2, meeting. 

The council discussed three trees located along West Third Street between the sidewalk and the roadway. Mayor Six had contacted Mike Dill for bids on removal and brush cleanup: the tree at 121 West Third Street for $3,000, the tree at 140 West Third Street for $2,500, and the tree at 276 West Third Street for $1,200.

On a motion by Commissioner Northup, seconded by Commissioner Olson, the council voted to hire Mike Dill to remove the tree and clean up the brush at 140 West Third Street for $2,500.

Resident Cathie Smith inquired about the status of nuisance ordinance violations, asking where the city currently stands. Council members responded that the city attorney is actively working on these matters.

Smith also asked for an update on the Land Bank and any progress regarding buildings in town. The council indicated that Land Bank personnel have not yet provided any notifications or updates on the matter.

Commissioner Olson reported positive news on the city’s sewer system. The discharge pipe from the sewer lagoon to the Wetlands area has been jetted out, and water is now flowing into the Wetlands. He noted, however, that some additional work on the discharge pipe will likely be needed in the future.

Mayor Six addressed a local animal control issue, stating that he had spoken with the owner of several cats running at large in town. He informed the owner that the cats must be kept from disturbing other properties.

The city clerk shared an update on the planned purchase of the Father Schram Hall building. The title company handling the paperwork contacted the clerk that day and indicated that closing is expected to take place within the next two weeks.

Council members briefly discussed lighting along the walking path at the Wetlands area. One suggestion was to consider taller lights, which could reduce the total number needed. The topic will receive further discussion at a future meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 5:54 p.m. This information was taken from the March 16 minutes approved at the April 6 regular meeting. The Dallas City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 20, at city hall.