Parks advances Chamberlain Path presentation; special council meeting to review grant-writing next steps

At the July 9 meeting, Parks and Recreation reported a 3-D presentation of the Chamberlain Path project and said the committee voted to forward the project to the full council to pursue grant-writing next steps. Councilmember Springer said Parks will schedule a special meeting in August prior to the regular council meeting so council can view the Chamberlain Path presentation.

The Downtown Development Authority reported on Farmer’s Market operations and raised a concern that increases in short-term rental fees disproportionately affect properties in the mixed-use and commercial districts. DDA members also discussed tree removal downtown and noted the village’s current ordinance requires property owners to pay for sidewalk repairs; Faulkner said he will bring a resolution and cost estimates to the next meeting unless council directs otherwise.

Resident Gene Svebakken told council the Rotary Club of Harbor Country voted to adopt the Rain Garden as a project and disputed social-media claims that a dozen trees were cut, saying only three were removed. Residents asked whether Surf Internet would trench through landscaping; Faulkner said Surf will use directional boring and that service must be requested by residents before lines will be run to individual houses.

Parks also reported funds spent on trees for Dillard Park ($1,300 of $2,500 allocated) and volunteer hours contributing to cleanup and maintenance at village parks.