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Fairfield City Council Meeting Recap: Walton Lake Concerns Take Center Stage
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The meeting began at 6:30 p.m. with a Study Agenda. The first item discussed was the condition of the public restrooms located at The Gateway on Burlington. The Washington County Riverboat Foundation has requested a $500,000 grant to remodel the restrooms. The Council approved a motion to apply for the grant to fund needed repairs.
Next, Council discussed the development of a Heritage Park walking trail, which would feature historical plaques and kiosks. The proposed route would run from the Carnegie Museum to Central Park, through Heritage Alley and the Courthouse area, and end back at the park. An $8,000 grant has already been secured to begin this project. Council agreed the proposal should be reviewed by additional committees for further input.
The final item on the Study Agenda was a proposal for a three-tier water fountain to be placed on the southwest section of the square. Council discussed concerns related to the long-term maintenance of the fountain.
Regular Council Meeting
The Regular Council Meeting began with the approval of the June 9th consent agenda.
During the Public Forum, several residents spoke on the topic of Walton Lake:
- James Stinton spoke about the ecological consequences of draining the lake. He emphasized the lake’s biodiversity and stated that removing the water would destroy a wide range of healthy species.
- Vesna Glavina addressed financial concerns and environmental impact, noting the potential odor from decaying fish and animals if the lake were drained. She questioned who would be responsible for cleanup costs and claimed that restoring the lake could cost billions of dollars.
- Felicity Spaulding presented a petition with 36 signatures from homeowners living on Walton Lake who are opposed to draining it. She urged Council to consider the community’s objections.
- Ed Noyes discussed the Walton Lake bridge, presenting various design options and cost estimates. He raised questions about permits, DNR involvement, contracts, and who ultimately holds the lease and responsibilities related to the bridge. Council said they would investigate and discuss these matters at a future meeting.
Topping off Monday nights meeting –
Council approved the sales of a wheel loader that the city owns the Council approved the sale of a city-owned wheel loader.
Council approved Step 4 of the engineering services contract for $308,000.
The Board will consider approval for the distribution of the Preliminary Official Statement (POS) related to the issuance of $8,455,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2025. The POS will be used in connection with the public offering of the notes and will provide necessary disclosures to potential investors.Council approved
All others items on the resolution agenda was approved by council.
