by Joseph Schultz
A vehicle smashed into the side of the Monterey Township Hall several months ago at the corner of 30th Street and 130th Avenue, and because of the damage caused by the accident, the township has been holding its board and planning meetings at the Monterey United Methodist Church on 130th Avenue.
Township Supervisor Henry Reinart Monday night told the board that repairs to the township hall have been completed, but the board needs to pass a motion to officially resume meeting there. The board unanimously approved a motion stating that, starting June 1, all meetings will return to the township hall.
The start date of June 1 was set because the Planning Commission meeting on May 11 had already been noticed to be held at the church. Consequently, that meeting will still take place at the church.
The board also approved a motion to repair the back door and the wheelchair ramp. These repairs were unrelated to the traffic accident. The board wants the ramp repaired before the primary election in August.
Blight Update
It was reported at the township meeting that one property owner has been ticketed to appear before a judge to explain why their property is not up to local code. Reinart stated that Professional Code Inspections (PCI) is sending letters to other property owners who are not in compliance. The Township Board has made it a priority this year to eliminate blight within the township.
Cemetery Repairs
The township is working to clean up and repair the cemetery. Headstones are being reset, and the fallen cemetery sign will be repaired by Memorial Day. The chapel map will also be refreshed. Township officials said they want the cemetery looking its best for the Memorial Day holiday.
Cell Tower
An unnamed party expressed interest some time ago in erecting a cell tower at the township’s transfer station. The initial offer was so low the township did not consider it.
Reinart told the board that the party has returned and is looking to make a more reasonable offer. After some discussion, the board agreed that the township would require at least $15,000 a year for the lease agreement. Reinart said he would contact the interested party to relay the terms.
