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Residents raise library foundation and tree safety concerns; council fields records request
Summary
Residents told the council the public library may lack adequate downspouts and sealant around its foundation and that two dying evergreens at 610 N Griffin threaten power lines; a resident also demanded decades of city records and became unruly when asked to submit a formal data request.
During public comments on June 22, resident Mike Chepa told the Lakefield City Council he inspected the library and reported only three downspouts, with none on the west or south sides; he said the northeast corner dips toward the foundation and recommended sealing the foundation and adding downspouts. Chepa said the south side curb directs water toward the foundation and reiterated a recommendation he had made a year earlier to add downspouts.
Public Works Foreman Matt Aden said the public works department should be able to complete foundation sealing. City Clerk Holly Rademacher said, given damage from an April storm, she will ask the contractor to add downspouts on the west and south sides. Chepa also reported two large, dying evergreen trees at 610 N Griffin that are taller than electric lines and said branches fall during strong winds; Mayor Stephen A. Condon referred the matter to the utility commissioners and noted the city—acility/utilities policy limits removal to topping beneath lines but not full removal or cleanup.
Resident Carl Driggins requested 42 years of financial records, job requirements, and all city ordinances; Clerk Rademacher said data-request forms have been provided but not submitted, and the exchange became disorderly with Driggins described as out of order. Resident Carol Schultz reported an intermittent strong chlorine smell in household water; Clerk Rademacher said she will check with the water operator and follow up.
Council thanked Chepa for his recommendations and directed staff to coordinate with the contractor and appropriate utility processes. No formal council action was taken during public comment; follow-up tasks were assigned to staff.
