The Winslow City Council convened last week to discuss important updates and initiatives aimed at improving the community. The meeting provided council members and representatives with an opportunity to share valuable information on various projects and programs that are set to shape the future of Winslow.
Ann-Mary Lutzick, the representative from the Old Trails Museum, started the proceedings by providing a quarterly update to the council. Lutzick informed the council that the museum recently hosted an antiques appraisal fair, drawing participation from local residents who had over 40 items appraised. This event proved to be a great success in engaging the community and promoting local history.
Lutzick further shared that the Old Trails Journal, the museum’s newsletter, will no longer have a printed version and be exclusively digital. This change means that the newsletter that used to be exclusive to museum members and sponsors will soon be accessible to anyone interested in the rich heritage of Winslow. To stay updated and receive the newsletter via email, individuals were encouraged to check the Old Trails Museum’s Facebook page for upcoming details.
The council was informed that the museum is actively seeking historic photos of various buildings around town, including the beloved Root Beer Stand. The acquisition of these photos will contribute to preserving and showcasing Winslow’s architectural history. In addition to photographs, the museum is conducting interviews with long-term residents to gather their personal stories and oral histories, enriching the town’s understanding of its past. Mayor Cano advised Lutzick to reach out to organizations such as the Elks and American Legion for assistance in obtaining old photographs and identifying potential interviewees.
City Manager David Coolidge then took the floor, delivering a comprehensive report on key developments and plans for several city projects. Coolidge announced that the city had issued a notice and call for bids for the construction of the new library. Bids are expected to be submitted by Aug. 16. Given the significance and complexity of the project, Coolidge emphasized the importance of allowing ample time to secure qualified bids.
During his presentation, Coolidge displayed 3D renderings of the proposed landscaping and parking lot design for the new library. Notably, the plans featured a dedicated children’s craft and play yard, providing a space for creative activities and fostering engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) projects. To enhance the library’s visual appeal, the air conditioning units and trash cans will be strategically hidden from the east side, which faces the main traffic flow. The library project represents a remarkable milestone for the city, as it will be the first city building constructed in nearly 50 years.
Councilmember MacLean contributed to the discussion by mentioning the city’s intention to introduce shade trees in the library’s parking lot. He said he has spoken to contractors and said the addition of a couple dozen trees should be able to happen at a relatively low additional cost of the project and will offer aesthetic value and much-needed shade for visitors.
Another notable topic covered was talk about potential implementation of a traffic calming device on Second Street. Coolidge outlined the plan, which includes the installation of a rumble strip to alert drivers to changes in speed. Additionally, detectors will be employed to monitor traffic volume and average speed on the street, facilitating data-driven decisions for future traffic management strategies. The council expressed their commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of residents and visitors.
Coolidge then shared exciting news about the addition of a kayak launch at McHood Park in Clear Creek. The project, initiated and executed by the parks employees themselves, will provide an excellent recreational opportunity for kayaking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Coolidge commended the team for their dedication and praised the collaborative spirit within the city.
Councilmember Samantha Crisp provided an update on the Winslow’s Farmers Market, filling in for the absent Farmers Market Manager Laurie LaShomb. Crisp reported that the market had successfully met the goals set by the USDA grant, which aimed to have 10 vendors selling fruits, vegetables or plants. The market’s popularity was evident, as they have received over 100 applications to participate. In a strategic move towards long-term sustainability, the market began charging for booth space, taking a significant step towards their long-term goal of becoming self-sufficient.
During the public comment section, Anne Schmidt addressed concerns regarding the speed limit on the south side of the Campbell and Cherry corner. Schmidt argued that the current speed limit of 25 miles per hour is too high, considering the presence of yield signs in that direction. She pointed out that drivers tend to accelerate to 25 mph at the sign, only to decelerate again at the yield sign, resulting in excessive noise in the neighborhood.
In other business the council:
*Approved a liquor license application for Tom’s Tavern located at 1500 E. Third St.
* Approved a professional services agreement between the city and Andurra Group, Inc. for engineering services which will be billed to the city.
* Designated the chief fiscal officer to officially submit the fiscal year 2024 expenditure limitation report to the auditor general.
* Approved official guidelines for Keys to the City program to honor people significant to the city and reduce bias on choosing those people.
The next meeting of the Winslow City Council will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25, in the meeting room located at 523 West Second St.
