A request for grant information and approval for beautification of the downtown corner where the Corner Bar once stood became a safety concern for the city council at their regular meeting Wednesday, Sept. 15.

Patty Shaw presented an idea, with photos, to beautify the empty space where the Corner Bar once stood. Shaw asked for available Keno funds or any other grants for the purpose as well as permission to improve the space. All in attendance agreed that the area needed the improvements as well as repair, however the area does not yet belong to the City of Kimball, as no deeds have been transferred.

The plan included repairing the existing south wall of the Kimball Bakery with building owner, Arne Christensen’s, permission. Once the repairs were made, the wall would be air brushed with a sunset design. Shaw then planned to place and backlight metal reliefs in front of the sunset scene in the shape of antelope. The improvements would be finished by planting indigenous grasses and plants in the vacant lot.

Director of Economic Development, JP Komorny, said that once the land is deeded over to the city the intent is to develop the space for a new business. He hopes that a new business will be on the corner within 24 months. A new building would cover any work put into the lot and wall.

“If a business comes to town, there are existing empty buildings. Why go to the expense of building a new one?” Shaw inquired.

Komorny explained that occasionally it is more efficient to build new than to renovate and update existing properties.

Mayor, James Schnell said the plan is a good one which may work with a few adjustments. He suggested the antelope not be permanently affixed, so if a new business did come in, they could be moved to another area. He added that there will soon be new entrances into Kimball on the bypass. They will need a welcoming sign of sorts and the antelope would serve the purpose well.

Citizen James Merryfield added that Shaw could seek permission from Sue Leininger, current owner of the property. If granted permission, the request for grant monies could be entertained according to Schnell.

The discussion turned to the safety of the property when Bob Jenner, of Kimball, questioned the stability of the bakery’s south wall. Council member Kim Christensen added that something needed to be done, and soon. A false wall was discussed including wood and cement. Schnell suggested it be made in sections which could be torn down and moved. Christensen asked whether such a wall could be used as a fire wall if made permanent. Merryfield said that the current wall was found structurally sound and that any wall made with wood could not, under state law, be considered a fire wall.

“This is getting dangerous,” Jenner said of the property.

He remained concerned, stating that with Farmer’s Day coming the entire area was a hazard. He told the board the city should require the property owner to secure the site before Farmer’s Day.

“We are all sympathetic when something like this happens, but it is time to move on this,” council member Kim Baliman added.

Schnell also stated his support for Leininger, and added that a snow fence blocking the area would secure it for the upcoming Farmer’s Day. Komorny corrected him, saying, by law, the fence should be six feet tall and surround the entire site. Schnell stated that he would be willing to help make the area safe, personally.

“Let me see if I can track Sue (Leininger) down and see if we can coordinate with her on this,” Schnell offered.

In other council business, City Clerk, Pam Richter prepared and explained several charts to the council regarding the budget. The rise in debt service amounts are due to voter’s approval of the bond fund for the rail spur project, according to Richter.

A capitol projects bond is being issued to total almost $925,000 for combined utility projects throughout Kimball. The utility bond is paid with revenue from utility payments such as electric, water, and landfill payments. The new bond is set to begin at the same time the current bond ends, so residents should not see a huge spike in utility bills.

Some of the projects this bond will cover are mandatory, such as replacing the boiler at the power plant. Other projects are voluntary, but just as necessary. The electric department is in need of a new aerial bucket truck as the old one is deteriorating quickly. While the current truck, which is 15 years old, is working, it is not mechanically sound or safe.

Richter took the opportunity to thank the council for their service and diligence during the meeting. She also commended the City of Kimball department heads and City Administrator, Harold Farrar for the cooperation, attention and frugality they have shown this past year.

The council was to consider a main street design and improvement program from the Kimball Service Center for building improvements. Council member Scott Haun declared a conflict of interest since Schnell works at the business. The council tabled the issue until a later date.

With nothing further to discuss, the council was adjourned.