(Estherville)– The city of Estherville is no longer a run-off city. After hearing further information from Emmet County Auditor Amy Sathoff, the city council Monday evening approved the first reading of an ordinance converting the city to chapter 45 standards for holding elections. It means the city will no longer be required to have special run-off elections in the event certain thresholds aren’t met. The council Monday evening waived the second and third readings and adopted the change.
Plans to construct a recreational trail on the north side of Estherville are drawing opposition from some nearby property owners. The City Council Monday evening reviewed a preliminary proposal that would have the trail following some right-of-way along Iowa Highway 4 between 14th and 18th Avenues North. Several residents expressed safety concerns over a proposal that would have the trail crossing the highway in the area of Maple Crest Drive. City Administrator Penny Clayton said a flashing beacon and painted cross walk would be a part of the $182,000 project, which would also need approval from the Iowa Department of Transportation for use of the right-of-way. The council opted to explore some other possible options for the trail route after hearing the concerns.
The Estherville City Council also Monday evening voted to approve the sale of a city-owned lot in the Meadows Subdivision following a public hearing that did draw some opposition to the proposal. The vote to proceed with the sale wasn’t unanimous, with two members voting no. They expressed concern over the city selling the property at a price that is under the assessed valuation. Those who voted in favor said they feel it’s important to get that property back on the tax roll as quickly as possible.
