BAXTER - Since its adoption in May, Baxter's tall grass and weed regulation ordinance has resulted in compliance in 25 of 27 complaints.
On Tuesday, the council held an abatement hearing for the remaining two. The properties are located on the Southdale Addition to Baxter and on the 4000 block of Cedar Scenic Road.
However, neither property owner responded to city requests for response and no one spoke during the abatement hearing. Community Development Director Bill Deblon said both parties were sent two certified letters of the process. Now, the city will have staff cut the grass and tall weeds and recover the costs from the property owner.
"The letters say to contact us and we'll work with you," Deblon said. "We'd rather have it that way."
Added Mayor Darrel Olson: "I think it's amazing and interesting that out of 27 complaint, 25 acted right away."
In other action, the council:
Approved $12,220 for an advanced engineering proposal for future water tower property evaluation; and $3,800 for Widseth Smith and Nolting for engineering services for a five-year bituminous overlay plan and a 20-year street maintenance plan to include the replacement of signal lights. Council member Jim Klein questioned whether the projects could be taken care of by staff. Public Works Director Trevor Walter said they couldn't because there was no time for staff to do them.
Adopted a resolution by a 3-1 vote approving a development agreement with Grand Oaks Court for tax increment financing. Klein voted against and council member Mark Cross abstained from voting.
Adjourned to City Administrator Gordon Heitke's performance evaluation at 6 p.m. on Sept. 21.
Set the annual town meeting for May 1 at Heritage Assembly of God Church and directed the Long Range Planning Committee to serve as the coordinating committee and make recommendations for the program and theme.
MATT ERICKSON may be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.
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