Cornell City Council - Speed limit will go down on Riverside Drive

Cornell City Council

By Ginna Young Motorists should plan accordingly when driving along State Hwy. 64/South Riverside Drive in Cornell, as the city council received word that the WisDOT can justify lowering the speed, coming into the city limits. The 35 mph will take effect as soon as the signs go up.

“There are consequences if you get caught,” said mayor Mark Larson, at a council meeting Jan. 16.

It was also reported that the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) has received an application to construct a new electric transmission line, which could impact Cornell.

“I don’t believe that we’re the recommended route,” said city administrator Dave DeJongh.

If the line comes north of Chippewa Falls, through the Mill Yard Park, that would mean Cornell will need to be diligent about what’s happening. Because of cost, DeJongh believes the PSC is leaning toward a line along State Hwy. 29.

“We want to be involved or at least, know what’s going on,” said DeJongh.

DeJongh also said Cornell will need to have a spring primary, Feb. 18, solely for the state school superintendent position.

Also reported, was that the city’s recently hired marketing manager has resigned. Council member and driving force behind the creation of that position, Sandy Schecklmen, says the two were unable to meet and did not get on the same page.

Since Schecklman is stepping down, she wanted the council to be aware that, if they want to hire someone else for the position, they will need to appoint someone.

“It’s disappointing,” said Schecklman of the resignation.

Brecken Bjerke (middle) recited the Pledge of Allegiance, Jan. 16, at the Cornell City Council meeting, on request of his great-uncle, council member Terry Smith (right). The council was greatly pleased to have a young person lead them in the solemn moment and would like to have others do the same.

Photo by Ginna Young