WHITEHALL — The traffic outside of Ealy Elementary on Mears Avenue has been a hot topic at recent city council meetings, and it continued to be
one at Tuesday's regular meeting.
Some council members have voiced frustration with the traffic that seems to get “backed up” during the drop-off and pick-up schedule at Ealy Elementary, describing it as “congested.” City manager Scott Huebler has been working with Ealy principal Ron Bailey, district superintendent Jerry McDowell and police chief Roger Squiers to explore different methods, but ultimately the school has confirmed they are content with their method. Huebler said city staff’s position is although it is cluttered and described as chaos, it doesn’t pose a direct traffic concern. Huebler also said the city has not received many complaints regarding the traffic at Ealy, other than employees of surrounding businesses.
Huebler said staff has seen cars backed up as far as Colby Street when it comes time for pick-up, which generally takes longer than drop-off since parents are waiting for kids. He also said there are four or five teachers and aides who are outside daily helping kids to and from their cars to help ensure safety and encourage traffic flow.
Councilman Jeff Holmstrom suggested the school use Sophia Street instead for drop-off and pick-up, believing it would be closer and more efficient, but was told buses use that street instead. He also suggested clear vision signs be placed at the Slocum and Elizabeth street intersection and the Spring and Elizabeth street intersection to give drivers more parameters.
Councilman Steve Sikkenga suggested sending out a letter to parents of Ealy students, reminding them not to stop traffic at the Colby Street intersection, otherwise they will face a traffic obstruction ticket, as well as to not block driveways of surrounding residents.
Huebler also addressed the hiring of a new city manager next summer. Over 20 years ago, Huebler moved to Whitehall and accepted the position of city manager after serving in the same position for the city of Hart. He has announced his plans to retire after his current contract expires next August.
Huebler warned council members whoever they hire will likely have a different style and approach, suggesting that the city let them “cut loose and take the reins.” He strongly recommended the council hire a consultant next February or March to help guide the city through the interviewing of applicants. The consultant would provide research on applicants to see if they believe they would be a good fit for the community or not, as well as provide the level of confidentiality necessary for this position specifically. He anticipates the city selecting a new manager next July, with them starting in August when Huebler leaves.
Councilwoman Tanya Cabala addressed what appears to be the filling of a wetland near Tannery Bay. She expressed her dislike of it, stating it was illegal to fill wetlands, but it appears the contractor is trying to get a permit that would make it legal. Huebler said if they were to dispose of anything in the wetland, they would legally be required to test it and characterize it, if they haven’t already. Cabala is frustrated at the filling of what is a conservation and said she will write a letter to the contractor expressing her distaste.
