Round-Up Resolution Fails to Pass

Posted on Tuesday, September 23, 2008

At last night's meeting, the Madison City Commission heard from John Goeman and Jerry Johnson, regarding the Highway 34 four the Future Committee. The Committee members shared information contained in a new study regarding the need for a four-lane highway from Madison to I-29. City Engineer Chad Comes, who is also a committee member, said that the traffic numbers indicate that the Wentworth Corner has seen an significant increase in traffic over the last year. The study also shows an economic impact to the building of a four-lane highway. According to the study, the "benefit cost ratio for Madison and Colman is 4.27 dollars to 1 on total taxable sales. The Committee members said the need for funding for the project needs to be found, but that declining fuel tax revenues will make for limited opportunities for near-term funding.

Commissioners also addressed the Round-Up program. Former City Commissioner George Lee addressed the issue, saying the program should remain as a volunteer sign up program. All three Commissioners in attendance, and the Mayor, said they were contacted by a number of residence both in favor of and opposed to the resolution.

A motion was made to approve Resolution 2693, to make enrollment in the program automatic. The motion failed three votes to one, with Commissioners Delzer and Ericsson, and the Mayor voting against, and Commissioner Bohl casting the lone vote in favor of the resolution.

Also Monday: a first reading was given to an ordinance that would change the speed limit on NW 9th street from Hyland Ave. to Olive Ave.

-Mike Waldner was appointed to the Airport Board.

-And some playground equipment was bought from Dakota Fence for West Side Park.