Drive Safely

It is unbelievable to see Renville County as the deadliest county for highway accidents.  As our “rush hour” begins with fall harvest, I would encourage all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts, not drink and drive and only use your cell phones for emergency reasons and especially no texting while driving.  It is definitely not work the risk.  Please be safe on our highways.  

Pond

There has been discussion about deepening the stormwater pond as to accommodate fish and creating a fishing pond.  Jon Wogen has been the spearhead for this and has received written support from various organizations.  I believe this would be an excellent addition to our community.  What is needed for this to continue is a group of city residents willing to work with Jon on raising funds and promoting the project.  The city is not in a position to fund this entire project, but would be willing to work with citizens on it.  If anyone or any organization is interested please contact Jon or I and the dialogue will continue.

Infrastructure update

The infrastructure project is moving along as scheduled.  North of Highway 212 on 11th street is getting major work and it is on schedule.  Wednesday 28 is the date for the first construction meeting for part 2 which will probably start with the golf course work.  Work is schedule, pending the meeting, to begin this October and should be completed by April 1^st, 2012 as to not to disrupt the prime golf season.  Of course, we need cooperation with the weather.  Hopefully our Fall weather will cooperate which will give us a bonus as harvest time is upon us also.

United Way of West Central Minnesota

I hope everyone that received the informational and contribution letter from the United Way of West Central Minnesota understands the many benefits Olivia has received from this organization.  Since expanding their service area, United Way has brought the Imagination Library, Early Learning Screening Packs, Stuff the Bus and other initiatives to the Olivia Community.  As of this time, United Way of West Central Minnesota has given out more to our area than it has taken in.  I encourage everyone to be generous to the organization that contributes so much to us.  

Public Forum at city council meetings

The Olivia City Council has introduced a new agenda item to our council meetings, the Public Forum.  After signing in to the Public Forum sheet, any city resident can address the council for a maximum of 3 minutes.  The council is not required to respond to questions.  The Council may instruct city staff to determine the facts of an inquiry or situation.  The Public Forum was begun to allow residents to share their concerns about the city even if their particular item is not on the agenda.  In order for an item to be included in the city council agenda, the item should be presented to the city staff at least a week before the city council meeting.  It will be included only if there is sufficient time available at any given city council meeting.  The Public Forum will be included in each city council meeting.  In order for a resident to be included in the Public Forum they must sign in before the start of that meeting.