HORICON — Reversal of its earlier decisions not to install sidewalk on the east side of Larabee Street hinges on cost estimates by Kunkel Engineering requested by the Horicon City Council Tuesday night.
The earlier decision had been based on the fact that there is already a sidewalk in place along the bank of the Rock River in Bowling Green Park.
Ed Miescke, 410 N. Finch St., told the council that after the North Finch Street sidewalk controversy, the council went on record that curb, gutter and sidewalk will be put in on any new road work done.
"I don't think it is fair for the city to make a resolution and then not abide by it. Why not follow the rules?" he asked.
Mayor James Grigg noted that the council decided not to be in the flood plain.
"A sidewalk would require a retaining wall costing $130,000, a $30,000 railing, and sidewalk at about $9,000. To spend $170,000 for the sake of being consistent... I think the council voted the right way not to put the sidewalk in," Grigg said.
Miescke countered "You should be consistent. I didn't need a sidewalk. It is not fair."
Steve Neitzel questioned when the flood plain became an issue?
"We were able to put a restroom in that park. I would like to see this done as cost effectively as possible. We have a little time. I would like to see options and if we can put sidewalk in with a little extra terracing," Neitzel said.
To which the mayor said, "And you will have a sidewalk nobody will use."
Neitzel reported on the appearance of Jeff LaBomascus, president, Rock River Hills, and Denise Tribbey at the May 14 Personnel and Finance Committee meeting requesting that the payment to the city be lowered by $1,000 to $3,000 per month to lower expenses and increase revenue.
"They reported that memberships are down and weekend weather has hurt sales," Neitzel said, noting that this is their second request in three years. "With our current situation and deficit budget and revenues being cut by the state, this is a detriment. (That rental) is a revenue that the city operates on. I don't feel it helps us with day-to-day costs. If they paid they would be in excess of $26,000."
The proposal of Rock River Hills was unanimously voted down.
Neitzel also voiced concern on the lack of information on proposed sites for the city's new well.
David Magnussen, DPW/Utilities Supervisor, said three sites selected on science, finance, and availability were sent to the DNR.
"We have not made them public," he said.