Novitski joins Gilman Village Board to fill vacant seat left by Grunseth
A new face took a seat at the table for the Gilman Village Board Sept. 8, as resident John Novitski was sworn into the position, which was left vacant after the last meeting. Leaving a hole to be filled on the board, trustee and vice president Eileen Grunseth moved out of the village, and tendered her resignation, effective Aug. 23.
Grunseth said in her official resignation letter, that she wanted to thank the village for the opportunity to serve on the board for the past 16 years, and knows that the progressive members will continue to provide the best of service to the community.
“I have the experience of working with people who are focused together for the good of the village and community,” she wrote.
Because two of the trustees were absent from the Sept. 8 regular meeting, it was decided the board will wait until the next meeting to elect a new vice president.
Members did discuss changing the normal meeting times from 7 p.m. to 6 p.m., so the members can get home a little earlier. Those present didn’t have an objection per se, but police chief Tom Tallier says it would not work the best for him. President Jane DeStaercke says the board would need to change the ordinance on the books and that it must be an agenda item, so there is time to decide what would work best.
“So, think about that for next time,” said DeStaercke.
There was good news delivered by De-Staercke to the board, as she met with the owner of the former Phoenix House, who says they are interested in trying to offer some kind of additional housing, which is desperately needed in the village. There may be some funding from the county to help with that effort. “So, there’s some good news possibly on the horizon,” said DeStaercke.
She also mentioned that there has been an inquiry about placement of a cell phone tower located on property on Trucker Lane. Several issues have to be resolved first, though, before the AT& T company can move ahead. The Planning Commission might have to meet, as that property is not zoned commercial.
“There are several hoops that have to be jumped through,” said DeStaercke.
Something the board could approve, was Resolution 2021-06 Library Exemption, meaning the village doesn’t have to pay taxes to the county, as the village provides heat and electric to the library.
“We have to approve this every year,” said DeStaercke.
There was no report on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds, but that didn’t put a damper on DeStaercke’s enthusiasm for the money to the village. “We’re still determining what to spend the money on, but we will find something,” she said.
In his own report, public works director Rick Johnson said he trimmed trees in front of businesses so they are showcased more, as well as trimming and brushing around town, and filling in potholes as needed. He also helped pick a date for the village special garbage pickup, which was set for Oct. 11. DeStaercke did mention that GFL Environmental bought out Express Disposal, but says that shouldn’t affect the village’s contract with Express.
Members also decided to set Trick-or-Treat hours for Sunday, Oct. 31, from 4-6 p.m.
