City to Apply for Funds to Pave Overflow Lot

The Common Council approved the application for grant funds through the DNR's Waterways Commission to pave a lot that serves as overflow parking for the Big Muskego Lake access lot along Durham Drive.

Initial estimates of the project were approximately $84,000, however 60% funding could be available through the commission.  While it was understood that the project made sense, as road crews planning on reconstructing Durham Drive would be already be there with the appropriate equipment, some aldermen are concerned with the project not being a part of the original budget.

Alderman Kert Harenda also raised concern over the expense for the initial study of the lot,which is required before grant funds can be requested, stating that if it exceeded $5,000, it would have required board approval.  

Alderman Noah Fiedler, whose district would feature the construction, responded by saying that he didn't feel the study drawings incurred more than $5,000.  

Alderman Dan Soltysiak also said  the cost of the project itself was "not a budgeted item for this year or for the Durham Road project.  I also feel there are higher priority projects in the city that would be a better use of these funds, even if the final cost to the city would only be approximately $33,000.00 of the $84,000.00 total"

Fiedler pointed out that estimates are often high to ensure that the city is budgeted for it.  He also stated that the city's expected responsibility as discussed at a previous public works meeting was $40,000.

The Mayor stated that he would make a point to have the question checked into, and that the present motion was just for the application for the grant, not to have the work approved.