Bancroft City Council Report—March 11
Adapted from minutes taken by City Clerk Debbie Swensen
Kyle Mills presented a building permit to place a double wide trailer on a piece of property he is purchasing, located in the city’s Industrial Zone. Mills plans to put the trailer on a foundation. Mayor Spencer asked what the age of trailer was. Kyle’s father Scott believes it is from 1974. He further informed the council that they are planning to re-wire and upgrade the interior before moving in. He also mentioned that the property has a water hydrant by the corrals, but that they will need to install a septic system. Mayor Spencer asked whether Kyle currently owns the land. It was stated that the final sale has not gone through at this point. Rick Hatch stated that he believes mobile homes older than 1976 are classified as trailers and not modular homes. He also found that the make and model make a difference on the classification and transportation regulations. The Council explained that under the advice of the city attorney, the city is not allowed to approve a building permit unless it is filed by the actual property owner. Council will research trailer regulations and city codes before going forward. The current owner of the trailer home will also be contacted for more information on the make and model.
Councilmember Jessica Vawser would like the city to require an approved kennel license application each year, rather than the current every three years. She explained that there are too many dogs in town running at large and creating problems. Vawser would also like to change the city code and require that dog owners provide proof of vaccinations including rabies shots. She is concerned about dog bites, and the prevalence of loose dogs. Residents have complained about the noise from barking dogs, especially after dark. Councilmember Vawser would also like the city to start enforcing existing animal ordinances. Mayor Spencer informed the council that it will be easier for the city to enforce the codes now that there are two enforcement officers. Councilmember Eric Christensen stated that part of the problem in that the city kennel is not suitable at present for housing retained animals. It was clarified that the city code does allow for warning tickets and fines even without a kennel available.
Councilmember Vawser advised that potholes were in need of filling throughout town.
During Public comment, James Ackerman asked whether the drain at the city shop was plugged up or possibly frozen over. Mayor Spencer plans to have the maintenance crew clean the drains with fire hoses when the temperature is sufficient to allow for it.
Councilmember Nate Eiman was approached by the airport manager with some ideas for improvements to the city’s airport. He would like to see improvements to the runway and hangars so that the airport can accommodate more planes and generally be a safer facility. Eiman explained that a new building with multiple hangars could be a good source of revenue for the city. Owners are willing to lease hangars from municipalities. The military also pays to hold trainings on their sites. Eiman and Clerk Swensen will be working on a grant for airport rehabilitation and improvement.
