Independence opens streets for ATV use

The Independence city council voted to open five city streets to ATV/UTV traffic at its regular meeting last week Monday.

The city will open 6th Street, Adams, Elm, Maple and Silver Drive. With County Highway Q as the ATV access point for Independence, this decision allows ATV riders access to the majority of city businesses, including gas stations and restaurants.

City residents will be allowed to take the most direct route onto the trail from their residence, similar to the rules for snowmobiles. The policy will go into effect as soon as trail signs can be put in place.

Riley Foltz and Debra Marsolek were appointed to the Independence city council for Wards Two and Three. Nobody had registered for the spring election for either ward.

Foltz, Marsolek and Brad Rebarchek had received votes as write-in candidates. Since none of them had registered as write-in candidates, the seats had to be filled by council nomination and vote.  Foltz was nominated and approved unanimously as the only candidate for Ward Two. Marsolek defeated Rebarchek in a 3-2 vote. Foltz and Rebarchek were incumbents

City clerk Lenice Pronchinske updated the council about unsightly properties. The recent spring clean-up day filled three dumpster loads, but some properties still require work. 

Members also heard an update on the proposed renovations to the Four Seasons park restrooms. Estimates came back higher than expected, but some items on the initial proposal were scaled-down, with costs expected in the $50,000 to $60,000 range.  The council voted unanimously to accept the revised bid and move forward with the project.

In related matters, the City Hall landscape project could begin as early as May 9, weather permitting.

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