Keep an eye on it, Gilman mobile home court is getting updated

BY GINNA YOUNG

REPORTER

Marked progress can be seen on the mobile home court on County Hwy. B in Gilman, since it is under relatively new ownership, but there are a few older models that are dilapidated, and have grass and weeds surrounding them. For nearby resident Derrick Romig, it’s not only the aesthetics that are a problem, but also animals living under the trailers that are an issue.

“Pretty soon, it’s going to be a health concern,” said Romig, at a Gilman Village Board meeting Sept. 11.

Gilman Police Chief Tom Tallier said they have set live traps for the animals and that the owners do have a demo person coming in to remove two of the older trailers, while the third one is tied up in civil court.

“It’s still an active case...so they can’t touch it right now,” said Tallier, adding that the third trailer will be replaced once the court matter is settled.

Romig was relieved to hear there is work being done. “I’m not trying to be the bad guy or anything,” said Romig.

Village president Jane DeStaercke appreciated that they could reach a civil understanding and promised the village will keep on top of the matter, if progress does not continue.

“I think you’re right, we will have to invoke our ordinances and start that process,” she said.

DeStaercke also mentioned a detour that will take place next summer on State Hwy. 73, that will send traffic on State Hwy. 64, through downtown Gilman.

“That will necessitate some things to be done in the village, more like tree trimming and things like that, at railroad crossings,” said DeStaercke.

The three residents that the detour affects, have been contacted about the matter and of their responsibility in trimming the brush on their property near the rail line.

She also shared that she sat in on the recent Planning Commission meeting, to revise the Gilman Comprehensive Plan.

“It appears to me we’re making some progress,” said DeStaercke.

The Capital Improvements Plan was also brought up, which is still in the works, dealing with what needs to be done for the village in the coming years.

“It covers such a vast array of things, I was wondering if it should be divided up,” said trustee Russell Baker.

For example, Baker suggested letting the Parks Committee do their own section, separate from the Streets Committee. The idea was met with approval, as it continues to move forward.

“This is a whole village thing,” said Baker. During the meeting, the board approved a contract for village assessments, with Prokop’s Assessing, in the same amount as last year, in the amount of $4,300, per year, with the exception of a $220 addition for the Tax Incremental District (TID) report.

Members also approved applying for a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Small Business Grant Program, which is due Oct. 18, and helps fund painting buildings, etc.

“This is a brand new program,” said Grunseth. Also shared, was that village-wide clean-up day is Monday, Oct. 7, for curbside pick-up of bulk items, through GFL, such as a couch or chair, and end tables.

“Those kind of things,” said village clerk Candice Grunseth.

Bob Preston, Gilman Village Board trustee, questioned Sept. 11, what items can be placed at curbside for the annual clean-up day in October, and learned that while things like mattresses and bookcases are a-go, GFL requires payment to pick up refrigerators and such. Residents can contact GFL, ahead of time, to arrange payment and pick-up.

GINNA YOUNG/THE STAR NEWS

The Rib Lake High School concert choir's annual car wash was a hit. Many people came out and supported the choir by getting their car washed or purchasing a bakery item. The funds raised from this event will go towards choir registration fees, music, concert attire, honors choir, and camps.