Crossing guard and resident urge local changes: traffic markings, body camera access, and ATV access on city streets

Two members of the public used the Oct. 7 public-input period to press the council on traffic safety and ATV/UTV access.

Sharon Dean, a school crossing guard with 10 years’ service, asked the council to consider painting cross-lane markings near School Street/Badger Street and to review whether crossing guards could be provided body cameras or other means to capture license-plate information when drivers violate crossings. Dean said she has had near-collisions from vehicles encroaching on the crossing area and that police presence had helped in past seasons. Mayor Smith replied staff would discuss the concerns at the staff level.

Resident Dave Nemasek, who said he lives on Sunridge Court, spoke about the city’s restrictions on ATVs and UTVs downtown and in the Chain of Lakes area. Nemasek said communities up north welcome UTV tourism and that allowing UTVs on West Fulton Street would help local businesses. He proposed two options: pass an ordinance allowing UTVs on West Fulton Street despite posted speeds above 35 mph, or lower the speed limit along the seven-block corridor to 35 mph to permit UTV access. Council members said the issue likely involves the traffic code, police, and the planning commission and suggested staff and the planning commission would examine changes.

Ending: Staff indicated the crossing-guard concerns would be considered at the staff level and that any ordinance or speed-limit change for UTV access would require discussion with police and planning staff and possible referral to the planning commission.