Wayland to extend water, gas utilities in industrial park

By Brooks Taylor, Mt. Pleasant News

WAYLAND ? City council members Wednesday night approved to extend water and gas utilities in the city?s Industrial Park East.

Wayland will spend about $7,000 for the extension, which will be on the east side of North Way Drive. The extension will be near the Eichelberger Farms? new building.

City Clerk Bev Conrad said the city is extending the utilities for possible future expansion in the industrial park.

The council hosted a public hearing on the community development block grant?s owner-occupied housing rehabilitation project. The community received approval several years ago for eight homes to be included in the program, which provides a grant of up to $24,999 to homes for improvements if the homeowner meets certain qualifications.

Thus far, seven homes have either been included or will be included in the program, leaving one spot open. Applications are due in the city office by June 30.

Conrad was given permission to apply for a safety grant from the Iowa Community Assurance Pool, the city?s property and liability insurance carrier. The maximum grant, which must be used for safety equipment for public works employees and other city employees, is $1,000. The city received a grant last year and will apply for $997.05 this year.

A new Simplicity lawn mower will be purchased from Brad?s Implement for $1,250. The city will be trading in its existing riding mower.

Permission was granted to city employees Barry Leichty and Randy Morrow to attend several training sessions. Mayor Brad Roth will accompany the pair to one of the sessions.

In final action, Abbe Kaufman was appointed to the board of adjustment.

Building permits were approved for Ben Leichty, chain link and vinyl fences; Eichelberger Farms, metal over wood frame shop and storage building; and Larry Gugel, cement existing garage floor and add a cement driveway.

Wayland council members meet again Wednesday, April 19, at 7:30 p.m., at City Hall.