Council discusses Quincy Street right-of-way, park lighting and childcare site interest; Catlett Surveying fee pulled for follow-up

Council members removed a Catlett Surveying fee of $2,500 for the Quincy Street right-of-way project from the consent agenda to allow further outreach to affected property owners and clarification of the project status. City Attorney Brian Schuele explained that property-owner contacts are required prior to approving the right-of-way work and recommended follow-up before the fee is reapproved.

Kristi Sittner requested permanent lighting at the Bennet City Park shelter, gazebo and storage shed. The council approved the installation contingent on the Bennet Community Fund raising the remainder of the funds and authorized a donation from Park Funds up to $1,000 with the mayor’s approval.

Presentations included Troy Nielsen of Signal describing the company’s code enforcement procedures and municipal partnerships, and Jeffrey Ray of Ray Planning Services offering to review Bennet’s municipal code and zoning regulations and submit a contract proposal. Council Members Josh Buck, Jesse Schmidt and Cassie Wemhoff spoke about a childcare foundation’s concept for a multiuse building (daycare, gym, meeting space, possible library/historical society area) and expressed interest in leasing city land near the water tower; no lease was approved and further planning is expected.

The maintenance building bid process was tabled until December. Council also discussed the non-resident users at the Bennet City refuse site and indicated a proposed rate increase to $550 for non-resident users to be included in the Master Fee Schedule for a future vote.

The Quincy Street right-of-way outreach and the Catlett Surveying fee will return for council consideration after staff contacts property owners and provides additional detail at the December meeting.