Battle Lake system to help responders

By Tom Hintgen (Contact) | The Daily Journal

Published Saturday, January 5, 2008

Implementation of a uniform addressing system is in the works for Battle Lake in spring 2008. Mayor Les Estes, in his state of the city address, asked for cooperation as the city attempts to make things more convenient for police, ambulance, fire and rescue personnel.

“This implementation also will be beneficial for our residents,” Mayor Estes said. “During 2008 we as a city also will continue to work on our emergency management plan.”

Estes said that ordinances continue to be under review as the city works through the painstaking process of updating the city code. The Ordinance Committee meets regularly to further this process.

“We still need substantial time to consult with League of Minnesota Cities personnel as well as our city attorney to carry this (city code update) project through to completion,” the mayor said. “Residents should be aware that all new ordinances are published, as well as posted, on the city web site.”

The city of Battle Lake plans to carry on with exploration of community economic development in meetings with area business people as well as leaders from both Clitherall and Everts townships — in addition to the Battle Lake School.

“Anyone interested in economic development is certainly invited to attend,” Estes said. “Development in our community continues with an additional expansion project planned by Battle Lake Good Samaritan in 2008 as well as expanded facilities for two community churches.”

The mayor said that review and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan is a goal for the city in 2008 as it plans for the future and attempts to effectively manage the growth of Battle Lake.

During 2007 the city completed some long anticipated restoration work on two alleys and is currently in the process of adding improved alleys to the Pavement Management Plan. An automated water meter reading system was put into operation in 2007. The new system will help reduce errors as well as cut down on staff time required for monthly reading and billing.

The Park Advisory Committee spent considerable time working on park improvement issues at Halversen Park as well as obtaining a site survey of Lions Park. Mayor Estes said additional funds for park improvements are designated so that park improvements can continue to be addressed. The priority is handicapped accessibility for all city parks.

Some additional street lights were installed on Lake Avenue North that, according to Mayor Estes, will not only be decorative but will improve the lighting and safety of a highly used walking route.

“In the future, we hope to increase and improve the walking, running and biking opportunities throughout the city,” the mayor said.