Butterfly Gardens and Trails projects discussed at Monona Council meeting
By Audrey Posten, Times-Register
Plans are in the works to construct a new bridge in Monona’s Butterfly Gardens.
Jim Langhus, with the Butterfly Gardens and Trails committee, spoke about the project at the city’s March 21 meeting. He said the 12-foot bridge will be constructed on city property within the garden, allowing access to a triangular piece of land that is otherwise only reachable through private property or a steep ravine.
“We need to be able to access the land to maintain it,” he said, noting that it will also help the public better see the garden’s monarch butterflies.
According to Langhus, the project will cost nearly $2,000. He’s asked the Monona Boy Scout troop to consider constructing the bridge as an Eagle Scout project, and also applied for a $1,000 grant through the Clayton County Foundation for the Future.
At the meeting, the council approved the submittal of grants as well as transfer of money to the proper fund should grant dollars not cover the cost.
Additionally, the council approved submittal of an Upper Mississippi Gaming Corporation pre-application to help hard surface the remaining graveled portion of the Butterfly Trail.
If awarded, Langhus said the grant would allow the committee to pave around 5,000 feet of gravel trail in summer 2023. The group has currently been paving 40-foot sections at a time, as donations come in.
Another item on the agenda—this one a city-led effort—will also add to the Butterfly Gardens and Trails. City administrator Barb Collins said there are plans to install a water filling and dog bowl drinking fountain near the trail entrance, just off Davis Street and north of the pool. Monona will receive the fountain for free through Delta Dental, in recognition of the city’s award for 50 years of continuously adding fluoride to city water.
New MCED director introduced
Out-going Monona Chamber Economic Development, Inc. (MCED) Executive Director Rogeta Halvorson, who plans to semi-retire, introduced her replacement at last week’s meeting. Ardie Kuhse will fill the role, bringing years of economic development experience.
“I’m excited to be working in your community,” Kuhse told the council, adding that the city has been fortunate to have Halvorson’s knowledge and vision to build upon.
“I’m excited to see where it goes from here,” said councilman Andrew Meyer. John Elledge echoed the sentiment, stating, “I look forward to what you’re going to do.”
On that note, the council approved the next $4,000 quarterly payment for MCED.
Hay Days requests approved
After a presentation by Monona Hay Days leader Teresa Graham, the council approved a parade permit for the event parade, which will take place at noon on Saturday, June 11. Street closures were also approved along with the use of golf carts for the day. The city will additionally provide porta potties, and the police department and public works employees will help with duties before, during and after the event.
“It can’t happen without the city,” Graham stressed. “We’re grateful for your assistance to make this great event happen.”
SOO Green franchise agreement discussed
The council approved an electric franchise agreement with SOO Green HVDC Link Projectco, LLC, which plans to construct, operate and maintain a new 525 kilovolt underground high-voltage direct current electric transmission line. The project will transfer renewable energy generated in Iowa and westward to Illinois and states farther east.
The 350-mile transmission line will run between Mason City and Yorkville, Ill., largely along railroad right of way. The only point it will veer off is the 18 miles between Luana and Marquette, where it will follow Highway 18 to avoid the treacherous Bloody Run area.
Representatives at the meeting said the project is slated to start in late 2023 and wrap up in 2026.
Budget approved
The council approved the city’s fiscal year 2022-2023 budget, with a tax levy rate of $14.52877 per $1,000 valuation on regular property. That amount is up slightly from $14.52634.
“We’re trying hard to keep property taxes where they’re at,” said Collins.
