Cornell City Council; Stacker in need of concrete repair

By Ginna Young

Since he was in the area to work on the Cornell water tower, James Orr, of James Orr Coating Inspection LLC, performed an inspection of the historic pulpwood stacker this summer, on request of the council. The results of that inspection were shared Sept. 1, at a Cornell City Council meeting.

According to Orr, there is little remaining of the functional coating on much of the structural steel, with a rust patina forming that encompasses nearly the entirety of the 180-foot landmark. However, the patina does not appear to be a primary concern at this time.

“It’s the concrete that he thinks needs to be addressed at some point,” said city administrator Dave DeJongh.

The cost estimate to repair the concrete holding the stacker upright is $45,252, but for every year the council waits to address the situation, Orr said they can add 5 percent to the estimate. DeJongh says there is some money the city can use in the Stacker Pass-Through Fund through the Community Foundation of Chippewa County, but that there is under $10,000 left in the fund, after paying for the inspection.

“Start having a bake sale,” said DeJongh. Members also heard about the DNR final inspection of the wastewater treatment plant that was signed off, because it was completed to their satisfaction. The plant’s estimate came in under the original contract amount.

“That’s good news,” said DeJongh. The council also approved the Chippewa County Humane Association contract for 2023, for a $1.15 flat per capita rate, per the 2020 estimated census, or $1,681.30, which is the same amount as last year.

Council member Ashley Carothers mentioned that there might be a misconception for some, as to the guidelines of the contract. With the city’s annual fee, not only the police department can surrender stray animals to the humane association, but also residents of Cornell, at no charge.

“I think this is a wonderful program,” said Carothers.

Another item approved, was Resolution 22-6, to express profound gratitude to League of Wisconsin Municipalities team members Curt Witnynski (deputy director) and Gail Sumi (communications director), who are planning to retire, after more than 50 years of combined service. The league is assembling the resolutions to present to the pair at a conference in October.

“It’s harmless to show some good will,” said DeJongh.