Dallas City Council

 Dallas City Approves Disc Golf Funding and Hires Part-Time Officers

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

The Dallas City Council held its regular meeting Monday, April 20, with Mayor Kevin Six presiding. Commissioners Carole McDowell, Peggy Newberry, and Greg Olson were present; Commissioner Harold Northup Jr. was absent.

Cristien Balmer, representing the Dallas City Disc Golf Club, addressed the council about the club’s Basket Replacement Sponsorships. The initiative aims to fund upgrades needed for the local course to host sanctioned tournaments and allow participants to earn official ratings. In response, the council unanimously approved a $600 donation to the club.

Laurey Wibbell raised two issues: unlicensed vehicles parked along city streets and a fire hydrant at the foot of Creamery Hill Road and Oak Street that is nearly covered in dirt. Police Chief Scott Rosson agreed to investigate the vehicles, while council members directed streets department staff to address the hydrant.

Chari Purchatzke updated the council on grant opportunities, including a Strong Community Grant discussed with Josh Mercer at WIRC and involvement in the Land Bank program through Victoria Livingston of the Prairie Hills Resource Conservation & Development. 

Livingston requested a prioritized list of properties the city wishes to address. Purchatzke encouraged the council to designate a community member to assist with this effort.

Michelle Gold requested that the council consider placing porta potties along the walking path. Mayor Six said he would contact Durand Septic Service about the possibility. 

Gold also shared updates from the Celebration Committee: this year’s beer tent and entertainment will be located on Dave Greenig’s lot south of city hall, with the food tent on the city’s lot east of city hall. The city clerk will work with the state to update the existing liquor license for the new locations.

Commissioner Newberry announced that the Kids Fishing Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, June 13.

The council discussed ongoing sewer project needs, including potential sites for a new lift station. They also addressed drainage issues, approving the rental of a mini excavator with a ditch bucket from a Carthage owner for $600 to clean out the ditch along the east side of Cherry Street.

Water Commissioner McDowell proposed amending the city’s water bill ordinance. The change would prevent additional penalties from accruing on past-due amounts after water service is shut off for non-payment on the 21st of the month. The item was tabled for further discussion at the next meeting.

Police Chief Scott Rosson introduced Chance Briggs and recommended hiring both Briggs and Kenny Foster as part-time officers. The council approved the hires: Kenny Foster at $28 per hour and Chance Briggs at $24 per hour. Commissioner Olson made the motion, seconded by Commissioner McDowell; it passed with all present voting in favor.

The council briefly discussed the old Father Schram Hall building, recently purchased by the city, and potential improvements to address acoustics inside the structure. They also reviewed nuisance ordinance violations previously issued by former Police Chief Gary Smith.

The meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m. This information was taken from the April 20 minutes approved at the May 4 regular meeting. The Dallas City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 18, at city hall.