Elmwood board notes interest in nursing home, announces new police hire and public-works winter prep

President Neil Boltik told the board on Nov. 11 that four parties have expressed interest in the village nursing-home property but that legal restrictions prevent the board from releasing details at this time. Boltik said more information will be shared when permissible.

Public Works reported routine winter-preparation activities: street sweeping, compost-pile spreading to create storage space, plow-truck wing repair, oil changes and greasing of the loader, winterization of park restrooms, training of a new snow-removal operator and locating curb stops to enable two additional driveway installations in the Nelson Development.

The Police report, read by board member Jason Severson on behalf of Chief Chris Thibado, noted completion of state reports, auditing of leased equipment, one parking citation issued, and 21 calls for service from Pierce County in the prior month. The board announced that Darren Ekholm, described as having 25 years of experience, will start on Dec. 2 after preemployment checks; Chief Thibado will oversee equipment, training and an introduction at the December meeting, and the board plans community outreach including a “Coffee with a Cop” event.

Why it matters The nursing-home property is under active interest from multiple parties; the minutes note the count but do not disclose identities due to legal constraints. Public Works’ winter-readiness steps and the incoming police officer are operational items that affect local services and emergency response.

Next steps Board members said they will share details on the nursing-home prospects when legally allowed; Darren Ekholm is scheduled to be introduced at the Dec. meeting and the board will pursue planned outreach events.