The Mayor’s Corner 03/27/2019

Mayor Diana Thomas

It looks like spring maybe going to cooperate a little with Spring Break a little this year. The weather report indicates some rain but some clear times for fun so watch for kids around the parks and schools.
The Electric Department will continue doing some tree trimming this week along Pioneer Road. With the schools on break it should allow work along Pioneer without as much congestion. Watch for signs and possible flaggers.
Street Crew will be working on grading alleys over the next couple of weeks. This will be grading and not alley cleanup. They started last week on the east side of town and will progress to the west side later this week. Alley cleanup will begin about the middle of April. The crew is also working on getting all the streets in town swept after the winter build up.
With the W. 9th Street project still a couple of months out, the City crews will be doing some repair work on the surface to make it a little smoother to travel on. We appreciate the patience of the residents and travelers in the area as we wait to get the project underway. Again, the bid date on that project is April 23rd, then a more definite timeline will be in place.
Last Thursday, the City Clerk, Building Inspector and I were invited to look at the progress on the new Ridley’s building. We were able to walk around and in the current structure. Workers were busy working on getting a completed roof on and finishing preparation on the ground for concrete to be poured soon. The original plan had been to excavate about 30 inches of soil before refilling and compacting the ground. However, after getting into the project, it was determined that an addition 24 inches needed to be removed and replace. This, obviously, required more fill and more time.
Coordination of subcontractors is always a challenge and they are expecting more workers this week to work on the sides and continue placement of the wiring above. Ace Hardware will take up about 1/3 of the south section, with a credit union counter and kiosk on the eastside of the building next to Ace. The major portion of the plumbing is on the north end for the bakery and deli areas. It is a big building and should give customers lots of choices. Even the parking lot area looks big.
When I asked about timelines, the supervisor indicated the building should be “substantially” complete and ready for moving into by the end of July. I know we would all like it to be as soon as possible and look forward to the opening. We appreciate being able to see the progress and look forward to visiting as the project moves toward completion.
Warmer weather is bringing out river watchers. Monroe Creek is running higher but the rivers seem to be handling the flow at this time. Those living close to the rivers and creeks stay alert. There are sand bags available to these residents if needed. Contact the City office or Street Department for more information.
Welcome to Jim and Sondra Eaton the new managers of Rolling Hills Golf Course Restaurant and Lounge. It is good to see the restaurant open again. Their hours are Wed. -Saturday 11-4 for lunch and will begin serving dinner in April. Watch for the advertisements in the local media. Season passes and green fee information is available at the clubhouse. Welcome to Weiser, Jim and Sondra.
Free fly casting at the Community Pond every fourth Tuesday put on by the Indainhead Fly Fishers. Check today’s paper for more information. Fishing at the pond has been good and this is a great way to learn or improve on another sport. Happy Spring.