Special session for city council
By Shelia Tomkins
At a special meeting on March 28, the Guttenberg city council heard a presentation on a project in the Guttenberg Industrial Park, granted a perpetual easement for access to a highway business, and hired a part-time assistant for the city office.
Scott Seitz, representing Anchored Storage, LLC, gave an overview of the company and plans to construct self-storage buildings on property recently purchased from A.J. Spiegel in Guttenberg's Industrial Park. Seitz said plans call for 41 units on the east side of the property, designed for boats and campers; 16 mid-size units on the west side of the property and 11 small units on the north side. He noted that the company has set a priority of using local businesses during its start-up and construction. He also said the storage units will benefit the local business community by drawing boaters and campers to the area.
Seitz discussed an issue with easements and underground high-voltage electrical service already installed on the property. In discussion with the city electrical department, it was decided the most feasible solution would be to abandon the underground wiring and install above-ground service. At its regular March meeting, the city council approved a proposal authorizing a 50/50 cost share on the electrical project, estimated at $15,000-$18,000 total, but with the stipulation that the city's contribution be done in phases as storage buildings are completed. At Monday night's presentation, Seitz said his firm is willing to agree to the 50/50 arrangement but with the city's share "on the front end." No action was taken on the proposal; the matter was scheduled to appear on the regular monthly meeting agenda on April 4.
Unanimous approval was given to a request for a perpetual easement that would provide for the right to enter and exit the Guttenberg Pharmacy from the alley that runs behind it. The access would be similar to that currently used by another highway business, the Stadium.
Upon the recommendation of City Manager Mary Willett, the council approved the hiring of Jessica Bittner for a part-time position in the city office. The job was created when the council reshuffled duties following the death of Julie Zittergruen, long-time assistant city manager and deputy clerk.
The council approved the declaration of April 7 as Junior Achievement Day in Guttenberg.
Informal discussion took place on railroad issues, including the upcoming closure of two crossings at locations yet-to-be-determined, train noise, and past communication issues between the city and railroad officials.
