WHITEHALL — The Whitehall Department of Public Works has begun painting over all “art” on the art wall, near Goodrich Park. After the city council voted to allow the art wall last summer, numerous concerns were voiced at multiple city council meetings regarding displeasing and vulgar images and language painted on the wall, and what the definition of “art” is. The council voted to officially revoke and remove the art wall a few months ago, but had to wait for DPW to paint over everything until the weather got warmer. DPW started painting Tuesday and finished Wednesday.
During Tuesday’s meeting, concerns were raised about damage being done to the trail near White Lake Community Library from inappropriate snowmobile use this winter. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources permits the use of snowmobiles on certain trails and paths in the winter, if requested by the city. Mats are laid out before the first snowfall and snowmobilers are expected to ride on the mats to try to prevent any possible damage to the ground. Damage can also be done from the metal hinges, if snowmobiles are driven on the path with too little snow on the ground. This can cause damage to pavement and divots in wooden parts of the paths, making it potentially unsafe for bikers, runners and walkers during the warmer months of the year. Usually, it is recommended there be at least 12 inches of snow on the ground for snowmobile use. However, given the low snow accumulation and unusually warm winter this year, it is suspected that some snowmobilers have ignored the recommended amount of snow and driven on the trails regardless. The council and city manager Scott Huebler are exploring different options on how to fix or improve this issue.
The council also approved a bid for Bob’s Asphalt Paving Inc. to redo the basketball courts in Funnell Park this summer. Since the bid was lower than the amount expected, any remaining funds are anticipated to be put towards parking lot improvements at Funnell Park. As of now, no start date has been set yet.
This spring’s leaf pickup will take place April 14-28. The City of Whitehall reminds participants to remove any sticks and to leave their leaf bags on the curb or edge of the pavement.
