News Around Town: July 21, 2011

The Escalante City Council met on July 19, 2011. The meeting opened with a public hearing regarding the recent revisions to the subdivision ordinances. A citizen voiced concerns about the meaning of ordinance wording, expressing that there might be unintended confusion. City Council members, most notably Greg Hughes, stated that the revised ordinances were intended to streamline and simplify the subdivision process. Essentially, there are now three types of subdivision: a simple parcel split into two lots, “minor subdivisions” and “major subdivisions.” Each type of subdivision has its own set of rules and regulations. If interested, please contact City Offices for more detail (826-4644).

Public Comment: During the Public Comment section of the meeting, Susan Nelson, representing Envision Escalante, proffered funds generated at Skyhoopi Thrift Store. Five hundred dollars were designated for the construction of a toddler park. Another citizen commented on the appearance of town. She stated that while returning to Escalante after a time away, she saw the town with new eyes and was impressed with how well kept our city looks. She is also very impressed with the new fence along the city park. Mayor Taylor credited our great city employees with the improvements and added that much work has also gone into the rodeo grounds. Mayor Taylor invited all citizens to visit the grounds and take a look.

Airport Light: The flashing light emanating from the new airport has bothered a number of citizens. A citizen, who has volunteered to head-up a fund-raising campaign, shared with the Council information as to how the problem of the night-long flashing light might be remedied. She described the construction of a potential shielding box. (This information is available from Sandy Brown: 826-4708.) Greg Allen, whose City Council province is the airport, stated that he has contacted the engineering group, Armstrong Consultants, which is the engineering organization for our airport. Mr. Allen went on to say that construction of a freestanding box is more complicated that one constructed atop a building. Mr. Allen acknowledged that the flashing light, personally, does not bother him. He would like citizens to contact him regarding their thoughts on this subject: 826-4002. A final citizen voiced concerns about the road to Wide Hollow Reservoir that is badly compromised. City Council assured her that Garfield County would be fixing the road.

Planning and Zoning reported no new announcements. A single parcel split, as well as a proposal to move a modular home from Las Vegas to property in town, was presented. Property for which the modular home is destined has current water and sewer hookups. The Council passed both petitions.

Scheduled items in the agenda included a written request for an upgraded water meter. This meter was improved with some contingencies attached. A small group of children were given a donation of $50.00 toward their participation in raising sheep. The Lions Club was given an equivalent donation toward the prizes for floats in the Pioneer Days Parade. The Fire Chief, Donny Porter, requested permission to hold a fund-raiser lunch as well as an advance to cover the cost of meat that will be served. The lunch will be held on July 23rd as part of the Pioneer Day festivities. In addition, the Chief petitioned the Council for funding for new shirts for members of our volunteer fire department. City Council approved these requests. Finally, a city employee presented the option of leasing an additional backhoe. There is an opportunity to obtain such a lease at a very reasonable price and doing so would save wear and tear on the backhoe the city currently owns. The Council decided to seek further information and will schedule this item at forthcoming meeting.

During the Council Reports, Vickie Schulkoski demonstrated her persuasive skills by assigning City Council members to spots on the Pioneer Days City float. Although the City is not in the business of caring for dogs, there is a need for a few dog runs. Recently, several excess and/or mistreated dogs have been removed by court action. They have been parceled-out to city employees. (One dog is described as a particularly nice animal. There is also a beautiful male chow that was left when his tourist owner became ill. If interested in any of these dogs, you may contact the city offices: 826-4644). The City is considering building a few dog runs for such animals. Mayor Taylor again expressed appreciation to our City employees for their contributions to our community. Councilman Greg Allen further discussed the flashing airport light as described above. Mr. Allen invites comment and stated that “even if 90% (of the population) wish the light to be shielded, it does not necessarily mean that” this will come to pass. Councilman Graham reported on road problems on the Forest Service road leading to the city spring box. Information from the Forest Service is being pursued.

Around Town
The Escalante Riding Club cordially invites you to top off your Pioneer Day Celebration at the Rodeo. The Rodeo begins at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. In addition, the Kid’s Rodeo will be held on Friday evening. Young visitors and area children will be demonstrating their cowboy skills. Indeed, 80 kids have already signed up for mutton busting! On Saturday evening, enjoy the improvements to the arena, nosh on a burger or two and watch regional cowboys and cowboy-wannabes take-on all forms of ornery domestic critters. These rodeos are the “real thing” and very much a part of our cherished culture and customs. The Riding Club would like to express appreciation to Valerie Sparks and Terry Olsen for their tireless efforts to improve the Rodeo Grounds.

Skyhoopi, our charitable thrift store, now has new hours. Due to budget cuts related to the recession, the hours will be Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 5:00.

The Remarkable Kindness of Escalante

When visitors from AZ found themselves in trouble, they couldn't have been in a nicer place. Thanks to Elaine Lott, Nancy Porter, Melani Torgersen, Jeannie Davis, and everyone else who set such a fine example for our town.

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700147221/An-example-for-us-all-The-remarkable-kindness-of-Escalante.html

News Around Town: June 21, 2011

Escalante city Council: June 21, 2011: Following a work meeting, the Escalante city Council met on June 21, 2011. Although citizens participated actively throughout the meeting, there were no personal comments.

Planning and Zoning: Water and sewer rules: requested that the city provide specific, written information about city rules regarding sewer and water hook-ups. Planning and Zoning would like to be able to effectively advise prospective builders regarding rules and policies concerning water meters and sewers. city Council approved construction of an artist’s studio.

Scheduled items on the agenda included several water meter applications, some of which were approved and others which were continued. The application review led directly into a discussion about city water meters and sewer hook-ups.

4-Way Stop Sign: Citizen concerns about the 4-way stop at the intersection of 300 South and Center Street were addressed. Recently, following a contentious argument at the intersection, a citizen suggested that the 4-way stop signs be eliminated. city Council and many individuals commented on the proposal. Many expressed concerns about the speeding and visibility problems on Center Street. Others mentioned anticipated growth on Center or the students who tend to speed on their way to school. In the end, a decision was made to make no changes to the current signage and to re-visit the proposal in December.

The Little League baseball field is to be rebuilt. The Council discussed a possible individual to head up this reconstruction project. This potential ‘victim’ is known to be a fierce baseball aficionado.

Old School Gym: The city continues to entertain the idea of purchasing the old school gym. A grant-writer will be recruited to pursue funds for restoration of the gym.

Council reports

• The option of airplane refueling is not yet available at the airport.
  
  
• Transportation from the airport to other locations can be arranged through one of the jeep rental companies in town. The phone numbers for these businesses will be available at the city offices (and may also be made available on the web, at the information kiosk at the airport, on EscalanteNews.blogspot.com or on the city website).
  
  
• One individual was congratulated for her energetic work along Main Street and other sites around the city.
  
  
• The F.A.A. gave final approval to the Escalante Airport.
  
  
• Covers on the Main Street lights will be repainted soon.

Yard Waste Pickup: July 11-15: The city will be providing a new service for residents this year. Between July 11^th and the 15^th, city trucks will pick up limbs and other vegetative refuse that people have placed along the city streets. The material will be transported to the landfill.

Landfill: Due to telecommunication problems, it has been difficult to arrange to have the landfill opened. For this reason, a city worker will be available to accept items such as old appliances, beds and bicycles at 1:00 p.m. on weekdays. Sewage from the State Park will not be accepted by Escalante city due to potential odor problems.

Airport beacons: A Problem and a Plan. Have you noticed or been affected by the airport’s rotating beacons? Many Escalante residents have had the strobe-like flashes invade their homes for years. Our airport beacons are here to stay, as required by the Federal Aviation Administration, to guide pilots at night. We can build a multiple-sided shielding box to remedy this situation. In a shielding box, the beacon is inside of the box and the top is open. As a result, the rotating lights do not enter resident’s windows at night. Other cities in the West have used such shielding boxes since 1986. Currently, Sandy Brown is investigating how to proceed in installing a shielding box for Escalante Airport’s rotating beacons. She have a petition circulating for this project. If you would like to help or to sign the petition, please contact Sandy Brown at 826-4708. If we can’t remove the problem, let’s find a solution.

Escalante Farmer's Market: Another shopping opportunity will present itself on July 2^nd. The Escalante Farmer’s Market will be open for business starting at 9:00 a.m. The market will be open until noon and will be held weekly until late September. The Farmers’ Market is hosted by St. Sylvester’s church on the grounds on the northeast corner of Main and Center streets. Locally grown produce as well as craft items will be available. Recent research suggests that some of the produce is quite tasty.

Skyhoopi Thrift Store: The current recession hit Skyhoopi in a very big way. Due to Federal spending cuts, the Easter Seal Society no longer has enough money to fund Skyhoopi employees. The thrift store, which has given much to the community, will soon be reduced to one part-time employee/manager. Hanging out and working in the store is low-stress and can be quite fun. Skyhoopi is seeking volunteers or groups to help run the store. Become a team with a friend and multitask by nurturing the store, the community and your friendship.

Host an Artist: The Eighth Annual Escalante Canyons Art Festival will be held on September 23-24, 2011. Artists will begin arriving early for the Plein Air competition on September 17 – 22. Motels and B&Bs are booking up and poor artists need help! If you have an extra room, a pretty place to camp or a hook-up, please become a “patron of the arts” by offering to host an artist. (You might get a painting in exchange.) For more information or to sign up, contact Sandy Brown at 826-4470 or Jean Bramble at 826-4498. Learn about the festival on FaceBook at http://www.facebook.com/EscalanteArtFest and be sure to click “Like”.

From the Desk of the Mayor: Some people say we are in tough times. I would agree with that. However, tough times also bring times of opportunity. I don’t think that anyone is just going to give us a handout. So with that said, we need to step up and do it ourselves. I know, I know, everyone is strapped for time and money. We have several projects in the works; one is the Mohr Christensen Park. We need to get it back in shape. Restrooms need to be updated, grass needs to be planted. It definitely could use some paint and some good old TLC. Then we have the little league/softball area out at the high school. Fences need to be put in place, dugouts need to be constructed, backstop, lights and a diamond all need to be set up. Also, we have the Rodeo grounds. By the way, it is looking much better this year thanks to volunteers and to our much-appreciated city workers. However, it could use a little work as well. It needs some mending along with paint and lots of weeding. As you know, the Pioneer Day celebration is quickly approaching! We also need some work done on our springs on the mountain. We need to cut trees and fix fences. We could use some strong, able-bodied men and women for this job.

I guess what I’m saying is that this is a time of opportunity for us to work as a community to help make Escalante the best. Community pride, community spirit, community involvement. Dignity. Together, we can make a difference. The only thing holding us back is ourselves. We determine as a community what we are and what we will become. I suggest we become the best! Remember, we live in a wonderful place.

News Around Town - May 17, 2011

Escalante City Council –May 17, 2011

Public hearing: Escalante City Council began its May 17th meeting with a public hearing during which two subjects were discussed and passed.

Impact fees: The previous impact fee of $5,717 was based on a 2007 study covering water needs and availability. Since that time, water availability has improved greatly. After consulting with the city attorney, Mayor Taylor determined that changing the impact fee is within the jurisdiction of the City and noted that the impact monies are to be used for new construction only, not maintenance. Citizens and Councilpersons discussed various aspects of the impact fee including the high cost of the current fee, reasons for reimbursing the two parties who purchased water meters last fall, the desirability of preventing speculation using meter purchases and the history of inflated prices of properties having a meter. A new impact fee of $1,000 was passed unanimously and those who purchased meters last fall will be reimbursed.

Zoning change: A change in zoning in an area at the south end of Moqui Gardens was discussed. This area, which has drainage problems and was previously divided into seventeen lots, will now be changed to two lots, each having approximately 7.5 acres. The zoning change was approved unanimously with the caveat that the drainage will remain intact and maintained.

Personal comments: A number of people made personal comments. The council was thanked for its support of the Potato Valley Lions Club and its activities. Forms will be available by month’s end for the 5 K Memorial Run held on the 4th of July.

The Escalante Canyons Art Festival will be held on the 23rd and 24th of September. The winner of last year’s Student Award was given an exhibit at the Red Canyon Visitor’s Center, which will most certainly enhance his career as well as further publicize our festival. Mayor Taylor noted that the Festival generates considerable funds for our community. Additionally, because there is often a shortage of housing during the week of the festival and motels & B&Bs turn patrons away, Escalante citizens may be given the opportunity to “Host an Artist” in their homes. Artists who have stayed in local homes have often repaid their hosts with lovely paintings.

The Economic Development Committee, which was proposed at the City Council meeting on the 19th of April, is almost up and running. Melani Torgersen will represent the city on the committee. The committee will meet four times and then will re-evaluate progress and direction. A city-wide business plan and prospectus for new businesses (e.g. Spring Water from the Aquarius Plateau) will be created, seeking to improve the local economy, a high quality residential environment and sustainable schools. The first meeting will be held in the City Council meeting room on Wednesday, May 25th. If you would like to participate, please call Drew at 826-4309.

Health Clinic: Changes to the new clinic are still moving ahead, although difficulties emerge as a result of the current Congress, which is reluctant to authorize funds. Comments were made about funds being sent to other countries when low-cost health care is needed in the United States. If funded, our clinic will widen its services to local towns including Panguitch where a number of people go all the way to Wayne County for service. Again, people are urged to contact Rep. Matheson as well as our Senators about increased funding for Community Health Centers. A call to our government representatives expressing YOUR point of view regarding funding for Health Centers can be made by calling 1-866-456-3949. It’s easy and with a few phone keystrokes you can reach a Washington office. Make three quick calls and you will have talked to a staff member from the offices of each of the Senators as well as our Representative. Express yourself.

Planning and Zoning announced that there will be a public hearing on the 24th of May regarding zoning on Center Street. Remodeling, two fence projects and a business license were authorized.

Scheduled Items included a request for continued support of the Escalante Farmers' Market. The Council gave continued approval for the market that will be held this summer at the Catholic Church beginning Saturday, July 22nd and running through September.

Livestock Show: Funds were requested for the Livestock Show. This discussion was deferred until the next fiscal year.

Election training for city employees was discussed but, due to financial constraints, tabled pending further information. Funds were released, unanimously, for the purchase of a new rotary cutter to replace the old one. The City is interested in presenting Escalante attractively to our citizens and visitors. A weed-spraying program was discussed and citizens are advised to control weed growth as well as keep up the City right-of-way along the street.

The preliminary budget for fiscal year 2011-2012 has been prepared. A public hearing will be held regarding the new budget on June 7th, 2011. Meantime, in order to participate in financial decision-making, the public is invited to review the preliminary budget in the city offices.

Council and Department Reports

• Councilman Graham was absent as a result of a plug in the Reed Wooley Spring Box. (Reed Wooley was a town marshal and water supervisor in the 1950s and ‘60s and was heroic during a town crisis when water lines froze for nine miles in January, 1961.)
  
  
• Councilman Allen reported that irrigation lines around the airport will be moved next fall.
  
  
• Melani Torgersen consulted with Garkane concerning the over-pruned trees in the City Park. These will be removed and new trees will replace them in somewhat different sites. The Mohr Christensen Park is funded via a grant for water and restroom repair.
  
  
• Greg Hughes described the presentation on the Economic Value of Beaver Ecosystems as “pretty positive” although some citizens have described concern about “creating another spotted owl situation.” DVDs about the project were provided to the council with encouragement to view and evaluate the content. City workers were commended for the trench work in the dumpster center. Consideration was given to weekly availability of a dump truck at the dumpster center in which citizens could place items which are not legal in the dumpsters (see sign next time you dump your garbage). Adding road base at the center and repainting the dumpsters was also discussed.
  
  
• Greg Dunn reported on the filling of the potholes and described a new method for repairing potholes during winter which the city may consider in the future.

From the Desk of the Mayor: I appreciate those of you who come forth to talk with me about your ideas and concerns. I actually like hearing from you. It is tough for me to know what you are feeling unless you come forward and speak with me. I cannot fix something if I do not know that it is broke! I believe by working together as a community we can do GREAT things. I want you to know I feel very strong about this community. Remember Escalante is a wonderful place to live! Let's us all take the positive road as we build a better tomorrow. Thank you for letting me be your Mayor.

Mayor Taylor is seeking volunteers for a Welcoming Committee and to help develop the Emergency Plan. Please call 826-4644 to volunteer.

Escalante Sidewalk Sale

Saturday, June 18, 2011

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Envision Escalante and the Skyhoopi Thrift Store are sponsoring a sidewalk sale in downtown Escalante, Utah on Saturday, June 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.. Come find antiques, hidden treasures, and bargains galore.

Need to clean out the attic and barn and make a little cash for your summer fun? Skyhoopi is selling table space at the sidewalk sale for $10.00 a spot. To reserve a space, stop by the Skyhoopi Thrift Store or call them at 435-826-4566. Everyone is invited to participate. Your table can be an excellent fundraising event for organizations, school groups, individuals, and businesses.

The $10.00 table fee will pay for the replacement of the broken window in the thrift store. Stop by the thrift store and sign up. Skyhoopi Thrift Store is open every week on Tuesday through Saturday.

If you buy table space, please set up between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Saturday morning. Bring you own table and chairs, price your treasures, bring a change box, and get ready to sell, sell, sell.

See you on the 18th.

Escalante Farmers' Market

Escalante Farmers' Market
Saturdays beginning July 2, 2011

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

St. Sylvester's Catholic Church

This year's Escalante Farmers' Market opens for the season on Saturday, July 2, 2011, along with other 4th of July events, and runs through Saturday, September 24, 2011. Open from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM at St.Sylvester's Catholic Church.

Anyone can come and participate as a vendor, but food that is offered for sale must be prepared in a commercial kitchen. .

The market is a great place to visit with neighbors, see who's growing what, and pick up extra fresh, local fruits and veggies. There is also room for artisans to sell their wares. We are looking forward to another great season!

News Around Town: May 10, 2011

Escalante City Council: City Council met on May 3, 2011.

During the personal comment section of the meeting, our country’s accomplishment regarding Osama Bin Laden was honored.

Following this patriotic discussion, Kendall Farnsworth announced the Road Rally in support of Utah State Parks to be held on the 14^th of May. Kendall described the significant cuts made by recent state legislation. Our own park lost one FTE (full-time employee/equivalent). The Road Rally will appear at Escalante Petrified Forest State part at approximately 8:45 a.m. and will consist of park employees, the media and citizen supporters. The public is invited to attend.

Planning and Zoning had no general information updates. Several permits/licenses were granted: a Country Kitchen business license, an addition to a storage shed including water for summer canning and a 10 x 20’ kiva-like room. Discussion of the rules, regulations and procedures about buildings and additions ensued. Watch for further information regarding regulations in the future.

Scheduled Items on the agenda included a request for the City to provide the ‘up front’ monies for the Fire Department’s fund-raising breakfast on the 4^th of July. The City would be reimbursed after the event. City Council approved this request. Additionally, Fire Chief Porter requested monies for purchase of a stove and refrigerator.

The City’s cell phones will not be functional after May 31^st due to the change in ownership of local cellular service. Verizon will be the new service operator for our area. The City will replace phones for the Public Works department, the Fire Department and the Police Department. Verizon approached the city regarding the lease or purchase of a 55’ x 55’ plot of land near the water tanks on which to construct two new cell towers.

Digital recorder: The State of Utah (Senate bill 318) now mandates that court business must be recorded on a digital audio recording device. This device may also be used by City Council. A motion was made and passed to buy the device with a $2,000 limit.

Council and Department Reports included a discussion of the dumpsters. Many have noted the slippery, mucky grounds during wet weather. Councilman Hughes described the need to level the turnout and increase the drainage. In the near future, a trench will be built to carry water away from the site. Use of gravel or road base will be discussed in the future. (Editor's Note: Meantime, citizens can help out by NOT placing things like mattresses and large appliances in the dumpsters.). To further improve the appearance around town, a city worker was given permission to scrap an old truck from the city yard.

Escalante Library: Our librarian, who works without a budget for books, asked for donations of non-fiction books for the library. Citizens donate many fiction books, but the non-fiction section of the collection is sparse. Mr. Christian expressed thanks for donations.

Airport: Councilman Allen reported that, with “one good work day (weather-wise)” the airport should be complete.

Heard Around Town: During a recent City Council meeting, a discussion of ‘host services’ took place. Escalante would be better off if we developed a reputation as a very friendly and welcoming place. In the last week the following occurred. A tourist entered Griffin’s Market and asked the clerks if they carried or knew where he might obtain reading glasses. His glasses had gone missing and he could not read maps or view certain things during his travels. Neither the clerks nor any customers were able to provide a workable suggestion. Panguitch may be the only place, possibly in the county, where reading glasses can be purchased. One of the customers stated that she had a new supply of reading glasses from a recent trip to Costco. She offered to give the tourist a pair of glasses. Arrangements were made for him to follow her to her home to pick up the glasses so that he might be better able to continue his trip. Kudos to Marty Henrie, a generous, gracious citizen!

Request for Action from Mayor Taylor, Gina Flanagan (CEO of the Wayne County Health Clinic) and members of the Health Care Committee.Please contact Rep. Jim Matheson at (866) 456-3949 (toll free) or and ask for his support. Ask that he submit a program request to the House Appropriations Committee indicating his support for an increase in discretionary funding for health centers in fiscal year 20012. Rep. Matheson’s advocacy is essential. "Community health centers are locally-controlled, nonprofit entities that deliver cost-effective primary and preventive care to 23 million Americans. There are over 1,200 health centers operating in 8,000 rural and urban underserved communities nationwide, with nearly half… in rural areas. To meet the persistent and overwhelming demand for primary care in this country” these centers warrant support (NACHC). The increase in funding would help build 200 new health care centers, including ours. Maybe by this time next year you won’t have to wait until a Monday, Wednesday or Friday to get sick or to drive a nail into your thumb.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

From the Mayor’s Desk: It seems like this column comes around way too often. However, I believe that communication is so very important in our community. We need and deserve to know what is going on.

So what is going on? Hopefully, good things. Have you noticed the equipment out Center Street? We are replacing our water line. This will be a big improvement for some members of our community. So just a word of warning to those who live on Center. Your water could go off and on in a flash. We are sorry for any inconvenience. I have already had to apologize to one member of our community for his water going off without notice and for this I'm sorry. We are trying hard to do our best. Members of our city council are working hard to get our water system right. They are putting in lots of work and spending many hours of personal time to complete this project. We are also looking at fixing up and restoring our parks and racetrack. With these projects we will need much help from all of you. As we get involved, our community pride will grow and great things can be accomplished. Let us work together to clean up our homes and property. We have a beautiful city, let us keep it neat and clean.

I welcome your ideas! How can we better serve you? Is there something that you would like to see us do as a community? As your Mayor I want to do what you want, I am only here to serve. Don't be afraid to bring your ideas forth. As we come together we can make wonderful things happen. Remember we live in a magnificent place. Let us be proud of who we are, where we live, and what we stand for.