Caledonia Argus

City will crack down on unsightly properties

Posted: 5/13/03

by Jane Palen
Managing editor

The city council will crack down on properties that are in violation of city ordinances.

At Monday nightís city council meeting, Mayor Robert Burns made note of several city properties that he said must be cleaned up.

On East Main Street, a property owned by Russell Besse was to be issued a permit as a salvage yard after meeting several criteria, including a rodent and mosquito abatement plan and a fence to screen salvage materials. The owner had until May 1 to meet the criteria.

ìHe no longer has a salvage permit, he has to clean up the mess,î said Mayor Robert Burns. ìItís just a question of how we handle it.î

The city will consult with its attorney and then proceed with legal action.

Mayor Burns also told the council that there are several properties in town that must be cleaned up or face legal action, including those that have old cars, junk, and garbage on them. The city needs to start enforcing its ordinances against such conditions, he said. Those properties that are in violation of the ordinances will be notified.

Other property owners who recently received letters from the city include those who are providing a habitat for mosquitoes. Three properties in the city were identified as having tires, wheelbarrows and other containers that could provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes that carry viral encephalitis and West Nile virus.

City denies permit for itself

The city denied its own application for a zoning permit at Monday nightís meeting. The city had proposed to build a 26' x 60' shelter near the swimming pool on North Winnebago Street, which would require a 22-ft. setback variance. Jami Burg, whose property faces the proposed location, told the council that he has concerns over activity in that area, and also that the building will obstruct his view.

The council agreed to look at the property and try to find another location for the proposed shelter.

The city council approved zoning applications for Bernhard and Pieper to build a garage at 725 South Marshall Street, and for Stan and Linda Bahr to add an enclosed patio to 421 West Adams.

The council voted 4-1 to allow the erection of two billboards along Highway 44/76 on the Mike McCormick property. Council member John Klug voted against it.

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