The City of Watseka’s project to ‘beautify downtown property sites’ was the focus of an out-of-the- ordinary Public Works committee meeting (Wednesday) afternoon. The ‘special-called’ meeting had interested parties gather at an empty lot at 122 W. Walnut Street.
And there was lively discussion and comment about an idea – a project to ignite interest in the downtown business community.
Public Works Committee Chairman Benny Marcier was encouraged by the participation in developing the site. He urges the public to offer input.
Officials attending the ‘special’ committee meeting included: Marcier, Brandon Barragree, Don Miller, Scott Muench, Jenny Musk-DeLahr, and Scott Anderson. Absent were Mayor John Allhands and Aldermen Dennis Cahoe and Yahmi Rollfs.
Now –what’s next ? That’s the question and Marcier wants the people to make suggestions on how the lot should be developed. Suggestions from those in attendance include a patio, with picnic tables and umbrellas to offer an attractive site.
An archway, connecting the lot to the two neighboring businesses was one suggestion that seemed quite interesting.
The lot in question has sat vacant for some time…
“We’re asking the public to comment either online or by attending meetings on Tuesday evenings,” Marcier said.
The City owns the lot, which measures approximately 30-feet wide by 100-feet deep. (It’s one of 3 such properties the City has acquired over recent years).
Marcier said it’s not about throwing away money; it’s an effort to improve sites and attract something favorable downtown ….
“The purpose of the meeting was to get input. We need to attract people to downtown and improving this lot is one way to do that,” Marcier added.
The alderman explained the wall was improved. Renovations cost the city $35,000. Help came from employees of the Public Works Department.
The wall was the recent controversy that’s stirred comment from within the City Council and the public. Questions about why is the city spending money on a privately-owned wall ?
The wall is much-improved, shored up and painted. Marcier explained (with a handout) the wall is owned by the City – at least half the wall; it’s a common wall shared by the neighboring business to the west.
Alderman Scott Anderson asked why no one told people the city owned half the wall, before all this started ?” Marcier said he did some research and hopes his handout explains how the common wall works.
Public Works Supervisor Loren Grovesnor said ideas have suggested a concrete pad with some decorative landscaping. He said his opinion is to make the lot eye-appealing. He added, ‘it’s about making this lot and the town inviting.”
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