South English Council Decides Against Restoring Electricity at Park

SOUTH ENGLISH – During the Oct. 8 meeting of the South English City Council, the council discussed the idea of bringing electricity back to the city park. Councilman Cameron Miller explained that he had spoken to Alliant Energy, who disconnected the power years ago, and been told they would not turn power back on unless an electrical meter was installed. Mayor Ed Shafranek stated the power was turned off years ago, due to “our hispanic members” busting the lock off to jerry rig power for “Cinco De Mayo or whatever.” The power was turned off due to fears of someone being electrocuted. Miller stated that it would cost $25 per month for the meter and that he didn’t think it was worth it. The council decided against installing the meter.

Miller stated that the council needed to look over the codebook policies for sending letters about overgrown or junk filled yards. Shafranek stated the city needed to find a new lawyer, and that nothing had been done about a property in town violating city ordinances. Shafranek stated that he was not impressed with lawyer John Wehr, who had worked with the city in the past. Miller stated Wehr “hadn’t done a thing” in the past, Councilwoman Hope Timm stated he was “really condescending,” Shafranek called him “past his sell by date,” and former City Clerk Lexi Van Dyke stated he had treated her like she was stupid. Shafranek stated that he didn’t want to hire the cheapest lawyer. City Employee Steve Clarahan stated the city needed a lawyer with experience in litigation and recommended Scott Fylnn from Keota. Timm recommended Jessica Hlubek from Williamsburg. City Clerk Stephanie Lown stated that the North English council uses a law office in North English.

The council approved selling the property at 408 Clark St. for $2,800 to Jackson Hammes. The council approved spending $6,500 to have Kruse Tree Trim & Construction trim and remove trees. The council approved replacing a fire hydrant in the park. The council set Trick-or-Treat from 5-7 p.m. on Oct. 31.