After a lengthy discussion during their meeting last night (Monday), the Carroll City Council narrowly approved a resolution to set aside $15,000 for sidewalk designs to connect Pleasant Ridge, Timberline, and Hidden Valley Roads. The proposed sidewalk is about 700 feet long on Timberline Road, 960 feet on Hidden Valley Road, and approximately 900 feet on Pleasant Ridge. Director of Public Works, Randy Krauel, says this is being brought to the council due to concerns about the city’s ability to secure a contractor for such a relatively small project.
Krauel recommends the council allocate $15,000 for the sidewalk project design, which had already been accounted for in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 budget. Ward 1 Councilman, Tom Bordenaro, says he has heard from property owners in the area indicating they do not favor sidewalk construction on the proposed path.
Ward 4 Councilwoman, Carolyn Siemann, says this project is about more than just sidewalks; it is a safety issue. According to her, many residents in the nearby neighborhood use these routes to access Rolling Hills Park or the Sauk Rail Trail. She says it is only a matter of time before an accident happens.
A handful of residents spoke on the issue with only one individual appearing to favor new sidewalk construction. At-Large Councilman, LaVern Dirkx, noted the council is not voting on if the project will be completed. Instead, they are simply allocating funds for the design work. He believes the council needs more data to make an informed decision and moved to approve the funding, which passed on a 3-2 vote, with Bordenaro and At-Large Councilwoman, JJ Schreck voting in opposition. Ward 3 Councilman, Kyle Bauer, was absent from Monday’s meeting.
