(Arnolds Park)– On a three-to-two vote, the Arnolds Park city council Wednesday voted to replace Sawmill Bridge with a structure that will be eight-feet six-inches over normal pool elevation…defeating the wishes of some for a taller structure at 10-feet six-inches.
A proponent of the 10′ 6″ option said the city would effectively be controlling access to the lakes by putting in a bridge with a shorter clearance.
Opponents of a taller bridge sited concern over aesthetics, effects on property values, drainage and increased boat traffic.
While most of the concern was over height, one person called for a wider channel opening.
Council members John Adams, Mike Koppert and Mitch Watters voted in favor of going with the eight-foot six-inch design; while Jason Christiansen and Jim Jensen voted no. Christiansen said he couldn’t make a fair determination with the engineer’s plans and wanted an artist’s rendition before making a decision.
