It was the year 1909. Of course, there were headlines of important events. Some of the milestones that changed history, however, were to be found ‘way back in the printed pages of yesteryear.
I have not written an article in some time now so I’d like to bring our residents up to speed on some of the projects that have been completed in the last year.
Our Streets and Alleys committee (Jim Westaby) has completed the reconstruction of East, Center and John Streets. To alleviate drainage concerns we added storm sewer, curb and gutter and asphalt overlay to these areas. We have also installed a new street (Station Street) located at the end of East South Street to provide access to the new Fire Station and possible future expansion of the village. Currently the committee is researching streets to be re-surfaced this summer.
The Buildings and Grounds committee (Larry Johnson) has been working with the Fire District on an inter-governmental agreement. Through this we will be housing our Village Hall and Police in the new Fire Station. Completion of the project is nearing and we could see that agreement fulfilled in the next couple months. Our new address at that time will be 300 Station Street.
Along with the Pearl City Park Board we are entertaining anyone’s input on a suitable project for the area known as Lions Park. Some ideas discussed already include expansion of the street to provide parking, a parking area, private development or developed back into a park. Please feel free to contact any board member from either entity.
Last fall the Water & Sewer (Dave Dixon) completed the removal of a 50,000 gallon elevated storage tank which became obsolete with the addition of a new 150,000 gallon reservoir. Several outdated fire hydrants were replaced bringing our water system to excellent condition. Nearly 90% of our system has been installed or replaced since 1988.
The cemetery committee (Rusty Liebenstein) has released bid sheets for the 2010 mowing of Highland Cemetery. The bid sheets can be picked up at Village Hall and are due April 1, 2010.
I would like to commend the Finance committee (Mat Diehl) for their fiscal responsibilities. During this downturn in the economy we are still able to handle all these projects and remain well inside our budget limits. Great job!
Hydrant flushing will begin in May. Flushing will be performed on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month, and washing of laundry is not recommended during this time. The sidewalk maintenance program is available to any residents. The Village will reimburse any homeowner the cost of the concrete. The homeowner is responsible for the labor costs. The adopt-a-planter is available in the business district. Any person interested, please contact Village Hall at (815) 443-2141.
Mark your calendars for the annual Pearl City resident cleanup day May 8th, the hours will be from 8:00-3:00.