News Around Town - January 24, 2011

Escalante City Council: City Council Met on January 18^th. During the Personal Comment section of the meeting, in which citizens are invited to share thoughts, ideas and concerns, the gentleman who spoke at the last meeting about initiating a walking trail project in and around town provided an update. He has been contacting private landowners about permission to establish a trail along the river and has received generally positive response.

Planning and Zoning described an upcoming meeting with attorney Justin Fischer regarding legalities of subdivisions. Elaine Lott expressed appreciation to Vicki Schulkoski and Stephanie Steed for their assistance in making up folders for the new ordinances.

The City discussed and passed a motion to raise the filing fees for subdivisions. This action will be referred to Planning and Zoning where an ordinance will be written and referred back to City Council for final approval. It is expected that the cost will increase to $200. Lori Coleman, previously an alternate to Planning and Zoning, will assume a regular position due to the resignation of another member of the board. One building permit was passed for a fence.

Highway 12: John Holland gave his annual Report on National Scenic Byway Highway 12. In the past year, the Highway 12 Committee has been replacing route signs along the road. All 60 new signs are to be replaced again because of a defective adhesive that delaminated under ultraviolet light. The signs were under warranty, so replacement monies are unnecessary. Six additional signs, mostly in the Bryce Canyon area, will be added. Highway 12 Committee has also been replacing the older route guides, typically given away at travel shows or in businesses and visitor’s centers.

Mr. Holland stated that the counties would be funding route guides. A joint grant with the Dixie National Forest to replace the restrooms in Red Canyon and, possibly including interpretive paths and landscaping, may be in the future. Future issues facing the Highway 12 Committee include a decision to extend the existing paved bicycle route or construct a pavilion in Cannonville. Mayor Taylor asked if extension of the bicycle path across the county was being considered. Mr. Holland replied that the Garfield County Commission is interested in paving to Bryce Canyon National Park and possibly through Tropic. Henrieville has not weighed in on this issue. Torrey is enthusiastic about a bike-pedestrian path.

Russian Olive: Representatives from the Escalante River Watershed Partnership provided an information session and a PowerPoint display regarding one of their premier projects. This project involves the removal of Russian Olive, often considered a noxious weed, from the Escalante River. The partnership has spent much of its time in the past two years on planning for and removing Russian Olive from the river.

It is clear that Russian Olive is taking over the river environment, choking out access by animal and man, displacing native plant and animal habitats and disrupting farm and rangeland. Ten years ago, an Escalante resident spearheaded Russian Olive removal in the lower Escalante. During the past two years, Russian Olive removal has been accomplished in parts of Boulder, adjacent to the Escalante-Calf Creek junction and near the Main Canyon turnoff west of Escalante.

As the project evolved, “Best Practices” for the removal of Russian Olive have been developed. Simply cutting the trees down is ineffective because the root system of the plant is massive relative to the visible part of the tree. Once cut the vigorous roots waste no time in sending up new shoots, thus ultimately worsening the problem and increasing the potential for further seed production. Systematic observations of tree removal results have yielded what seem to be the most effective procedures for elimination of the plant.

The partnership now has funding for Russian Olive removal on private land located primarily to the west of town. Landowners in the designated area have been contacted and most, if not all, have agreed to participate in the project. The partnership anticipates hiring local residents as part of this year’s project as well as for the future monitoring that will be needed to insure that the plants have been eliminated.

Mayor Taylor described his involvement in previous Escalante River Watershed Partnership meetings and made clear the fact that the city has influence only over land that lies within city limits. The next meeting of the Partnership will be held on Tuesday, the 25^th of January in the conference room of the Richfield Quality Inn from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The meeting is open to the public.

Additional information about the Watershed Partnership will be available in a future edition of the Escalante Newsletter.

Spice: Barry Huntington, Esq. has contacted the city regarding a new manufactured drug called "spice." The drug is a marijuana-like substance and is so new that no laws currently exist regarding manufacture or possession. Mr. Huntington suggests that the city be proactive in establishing ordinances against "spice." A model ordinance has been written which may be adopted. "Spice" will likely be one of the first items to be addressed by the state legislature when it meets in the forthcoming weeks. The City Council approved a motion to adopt the ordinance at the next City Council meeting.

Odds & Ends: Councilman Allen reported that the airport project will be starting back up on the 1^st of March. Councilwoman Torgersen expressed gratitude to those who helped with the seasonal lighting along Main Street.

Christmas Train: There are few places outside of Disneyland and Disneyworld where a person can experience the nighttime magic of a lighted train. The City of Escalante and the Escalante Newsletter would like to thank the Wilson and Shurtz families: Lenza Wilson, Zack Wilson, Dale Wilson, and Susan Shurtz for the wonderful Christmas train. The family put in many hours creating one of the very special aspects of living in Escalante. Thank you.

From the Mayor’s Desk: Mayor Taylor is unavailable this week. Look for his comments in the next edition.

News Around Town - January 4, 2011

Escalante City Council

The City Council met on January 4, 2011 following a month hiatus. The meeting began with personal comments by members of the public.

Walking Path: One gentleman proposed that a walking path or trail be developed, possibly from the Escalante River to the State Park. He volunteered to initiate this project and hopes to obtain funding from grants and possibly from the State Park. He requested that the city provide him with the names of property owners along the river in order to obtain their approval for the project. Property ownership can be obtained from the city offices during regular business hours.

Community Development Meeting: On a related topic, Mayor Taylor will be exploring the option of having another community development meeting like that held last year. A woman who has been active in the community expressed appreciation for the gestures made by the city and community members during the holidays.

Holiday Festival: During scheduled business, one citizen asked Council permission to develop a holiday festival to be held the Friday and Saturday preceding Thanksgiving. The concept would include a crafts fair, a fully decorated Community Center and a street festival on Friday evening where hot chocolate would be served. In order to insure the best outcome, vendors need to have the dates established well ahead of time. In addition, the planting of an evergreen tree on the Community Center grounds would serve as a focus for decoration in the forthcoming years. The City Council approved this project. Mayor Taylor designated Melani Torgersen as supervising councilperson as festival plans develop.

Airport: The airport lease agreement, as written by the city attorney, was approved.

Lighting: The Potato Valley Lions Club requested that the new entrance signs be lighted at night. The Council discussed of this matter and concern was raised that on the west side of town the sign is located too far from available electricity to light without costly infrastructure. Solar lighting is often used in such situations. Greg Hughes will explore the possibility of solar lighting and will also check with D.O.T. The topic will be put on the agenda at a future date when a more informed decision could be made.

City Employee: Hiring a new city employee will be deferred until later in the year. This decision was made based on cost saving as well as decreased need for city labor in winter.

Landfill Management: The city suggested that citizens might participate in a committee who will be trained in landfill management and be available “on-call” so that the people of Escalante may have more frequent access. Better access will spare employees, allow citizens to avoid illegal dumping in the dumpsters, and presumably save the community money. Folks who are interested in a landfill opportunity may contact Vickie at the city offices (826-4644)

Water Rights: Water, water everywhere… The subject on the agenda was “Water Rights-Irrigation Company.“ The city of Escalante has been asked to "transfer" 260 acre-feet of water to the New Escalante Irrigation Company. The City would undertake this action with the understanding that the transfer would be temporary and revocable at any time. An extensive discussion ensued related to the complicated water laws in the western United States. During the past few years, our city has experienced multiple water crises as the result of an aging culinary water system. Now that our water system has been rebuilt, (with many thanks for the years of effort by Councilman Graham), it is important to monitor and evaluate how we use water. "Unused" water risks loss of the water rights based on the archaic Prior Appropriation Doctrine*.

Hence, unused water attached to empty houses or homes that are used only for short periods of the year, as well as water saving measures such as low-flow fixtures may actually be harmful to the city’s access to water resources. The city will continue consulting with attorneys regarding water law and will proceed to insure our water future. The legal "use" of water by Wide Hollow/New Escalante Irrigation Company will insure that water is used (in a legal sense) and will protect our water from "takings." City employees and councilpersons will be attending conferences/trainings regarding new impact fee laws, well and water system maintenance and EMT training.

* Prior Appropriation Doctrine: state statues regard all water as public property. Rights to use water are based on the quantity, source, priority, nature of use, point of diversion, date and beneficial–physical use of the water. Beneficial use is the basis of all water rights in the state. The “water code” was enacted in 1903, then revised and reenacted in 1919. Much of Utah is closed to new water appropriations. Therefore, new allocations require obtaining existing rights. The Code, Title 73, can be seen at http://www.le.state.ut.us/~code/TiTLE73/TITLE73.htm.

Annexation: Citizens to the east of the city limits are requesting annexation. The council discussed the need for annexation and the challenges of providing services to out-of-city-limits residents but only getting partial compensation from the county. One person in the audience stated that as much annexation as possible would be helpful to the city’s future. The Council appeared to agree.

Saw Mill: Mayor Taylor will be attending meetings (1/26) with Sen. Hatch, Rep. Matheson, the Forest Service and others regarding the revitalization of the Saw Mill.

Emergency Preparedness Committee: Mayor Taylor asked that an Emergency Preparedness Committee be established to involve the Police, Search & Rescue, the EMTs, Fire Department, the Forest Service and the Monument. Councilman Greg Hughes will head the committee.

Welcoming Committee: A volunteer is being sought to head a welcoming committee that would help people moving into town.

Holiday Lights: Councilwoman Torgersen requested that holiday lights be included in the next budget.

Main Street: Councilman Hughes will be sending a letter to all city businesses regarding the previously reported serious problem caused by grease in the sewer lines and to businesses which front on Main Street regarding their obligations to remove snow.

From the Mayor’s Desk
"Happy New Year". I hope each of you had a wonderful holiday season! The year 2010 is behind us now and it's important that we look forward to 2011. Let us use the past to help us shape the future. As your Mayor I'm excited for this New Year and the challenges that it brings.

During the past year we made some great strides in our community. As we look to the future there is much to be done. I ask for your help and enthusiasm in making our community the best place to live. We need to create jobs and opportunities in our city. We need to work to strengthen our schools. This can only be accomplished by working together. Please remember that my door is always open and I am open to great ideas and help. No one person can do it alone.... So let us work together. Remember Escalante is a great place to live.

Escalante Newsletter: the product of a partnership between Escalante City and citizen volunteers. Letters and comments may be left at the City Offices or entered at EscalanteNews.blogspot.com.

Lunar Eclipse Events at Bryce Canyon

December 20, 2010 events at Bryce Canyon celebrating the total lunar eclipse on the winter solstice. Next chance: December 21, 2401.

Dress warmly! Free hot apple cider and cocoa are provided at all events.

5:30 p.m. Full-Moon Hike on Snowshoes! A ranger-led, 2-hour full moon hike. 30 participants, ages 6 and up. Meet at the Visitor's Center or call 435-834-4747 to reserve a spot .

10-10:30 p.m. Pre-eclipse Moon Viewing through large telescopes on the Bryce Canyon Visitor's Center patio.

10:30 p.m. "All I Want for Solstice is Our Moon to Come Back!" A one-hour multimedia program in the Visitor's Center.

11:30 p.m. to 12:40 a.m. View the Total Eclipse. View the eclipse through large telescopes on the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center's patio.

For more information, see Hoodoos, Winter Solstice, and Lunar Eclipse Converge.

News Around Town - November 18, 2010

Escalante City Council: The Escalante City Council devoted the beginning of the November 16th meeting to a public hearing on the new Planning and Zoning Ordinances. A formal Planning and Zoning Hearing was held on September 28th. The purpose of last Tuesday’s meeting was to adopt the new ordinances. The public was invited to address the council and express concerns.

One citizen pointed out that, in order to get a water meter, one must have a building permit in hand. Property buyers are reluctant to purchase land without available water. In other communities, a significant deposit on a water meter is required with a two-year build-out interval allowed for design, permitting and construction. If the project is not completed within that window of time, the deposit is forfeited.

Another citizen discussed the irregularity of many city lots and suggested that, “Required minimum lot widths are not compatible with required minimum acreage as they relate to the typical Escalante lot.” He made a suggestion as to how this inherent conflict might be remedied: a simple change in the minimum frontage.

Councilman Dunn stated that he spent much time reviewing the ordinances. “What we have before us is a good representation of what we want to see.” He made a motion that the ordinances be passed. The Council went on to describe the ordinances as a working document, amenable to revision at any time. Indeed, further changes are anticipated, as Justin Fischer will be meeting again with P & Z in January to further review the complex issues surrounding subdivision. The ordinances were passed and thanks were expressed to the tireless work done by the Planning & Zoning group. In addition, the many citizens who attended the Planning and Zoning meeting were acknowledged.

A citizen made personal comments to the Council regarding potholes, particularly on Center Street. This issue was discussed at length at two points in the meeting. The City will work to fill the more severe potholes in the near future; however, filling many of the holes will be more cost effective if the projects can be done in the spring.

The City Council tabled three items on the agenda. The City Holiday Party was scheduled. One of the Councilpersons and one of the City workers will be attending pesticide workshops in order to keep pesticide certification current. The old Clinic propane heater, new at the time a fire destroyed the building, will be recycled into one of the City shops in order to keep the diesel sewer truck from freezing. Funding will come from the sewer fund.

Heard Around Town: “Body searches ahead of time may prevent body searches afterward.”

From the Community: Skyhoopi Thrift Store is readying for Christmas. Decorations abound and a sale will begin on Saturday, November 26th. As usual, donations are always welcome.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award is an award that honors those who have demonstrated a commitment to helping individuals or community. The award was established during the recent Bush administration and is being continued by the Obama administration. Six Escalante citizens have been honored for exemplary volunteer service:

• Arnold Alvey
• Dana Waggoner
• Deon Alvey
• Karen Rangitsch
• Pat Sorensen
• Susan Nelson

Guest Editorial: “A democratic government is a privilege and a responsibility. Our system is currently dysfunctional in part because we see ourselves as consumers, not citizens. That is, we expect service. We don’t feel compelled to participate in the well-being of our community or our country.

We, as citizens, like the private and public sectors, have mostly lost the sense of what it means to work towards the common good. Imagine if [we] had been asked to serve our country as caring citizens instead of asking us to go shopping soon after 9-11.

Let’s change that. Can we work together as citizens for the common good? We can be the model for others – including congress – to follow.” (The Coffee Party, an Internet group that strives to promote civil political discourse.)

Bountiful Baskets is a food co-op serving several western states including Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. From Aurora to Willard, approximately 225 monthly deliveries are made in Utah alone. Escalante receives deliveries two Saturdays per month. Remarkably fresh produce, the mainstay of the organization, arrives and is separated into baskets by local volunteers. Indeed, volunteers alone operate the whole organization. Prices are remarkably low. In addition, fresh bread, special selections and cases of seasonal produce are offered. Sign up and ordering are done online on an individual basis. Some people, especially those with small families, choose to split an order. People who are interested in participating may contact Brenda Lyman at 826-4459.

Stylin’: Salt Lake City fashionistas have been observed wearing skinny jeans tucked into knee-high boots. A matching long, knit scarf and beret, completes the ensemble.

From the Mayor’s Desk: Thanksgiving is just a few days away and overall we have a lot to be thankful for. We live in a wonderful place with great friends and neighbors. Having said this, though, let us be aware of those around us. We have been fortunate with some good jobs in town this year but there may be some people who are still in need. It is my hope that we could all be good neighbors and lend a helping hand when we can.

Speaking of good neighbors I had one person approach me and talk to me about growth in town. They would like to build a place but felt that our impact fees are a little high. She felt that it’s important that we should help young couples and families get started here. So I’m asking you, what do you think? How do you feel about growth, about impact fees, about water meters? What should be the criteria to get a water meter? Should we allow meters outside city limits? As your mayor I want to hear from you, as does the city council. Growth is important to the survival of this community, but what kind of growth would you like to see? It means a great deal to me when we work hard and stick together as a community. Being able to do this will help us meet the challenges that occur during change. Remember Escalante is a great place to live and raise a family.

Escalante Newsletter is the product of a partnership between Escalante City and citizen volunteers. Letters and comments may be left at the City Offices. Respectful letters of 250 words or less may be published, anonymously if requested.

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

News Around Town - November 6, 2010

Escalante City Council met on Wednesday, November 3, 2010. The meeting began with enthusiastic “thank yous” from citizens who were pleased with the recent maintenance of city lighting. The light at the front of the city office building was rehabilitated and old light bulbs were replaced on Main Street. City Council thanked the employees and Lenza Wilson for the recent work on various projects.

Planning & Zoning announced that next Tuesday Justin Fisher will attend its meeting to help complete the new set of ordinances providing advice on the legalities surrounding subdivisions. A conditional use permit was authorized in order to allow visiting family members to use water in, and install temporary skirting around, a recreational vehicle that is driven to Escalante seasonally. A business license was granted, as was a building permit for a garage. Lori Coleman was designated as the new alternate for the Planning and Zoning committee.

Among the scheduled items on the agenda, water rights with the New Escalante Irrigation district, airport business and Fire Department sign were all tabled due to absence of key persons or need for additional information. The city will no longer offer online billing to water customers and has sent letters to those who have previously used this service. The service is no longer cost-effective. Clarification of the city’s obligation to maintain the planting on Main Street has been clarified. A city worker will contact a potential source for the use of an air compressor in order to clear the drip irrigation system. The annual city Christmas party was discussed.

Mayor Taylor described a number of community issues that need to be addressed. Citizens who need to report a concern, particularly a nuisance issue such as barking dogs, should contact Police Dispatch at 676-1134. If an individual is experiencing an emergency, then 911 should be called. 911 should be used for emergencies only. (Ed. Note by Jean Bramble: Some communities levy fines for non-emergency use of 911. Abuse of 911 has the potential to invite fines, and therefore, more intrusive government, into our independent lives!) Calls to dispatch are automatically compiled as important data that helps determine deployment of police personnel around the county. On another subject, Mayor Taylor emphasized that, contrary to current rumor, he has not spent, nor has he authorized, $6000 for windows on the new fire station doors. Donny Porter discussed the $600 that is presently in a donation fund for the Fire Department. A vacuum cleaner is needed for the building. Taylor and Porter will review this operating expense in the near future, making the suggestion that the vacuum may not need to come from donated funds. Future discussions at City Council and in more informal situations are expected to center around growth in Escalante. A consideration of decreasing impact fees and attracting young families is anticipated. Finally, Mr. Taylor expressed gratitude to those who have been helping with the recent difficulties with the sewer system (see below).

Volunteers are needed to put up Christmas lights in the city. Melani Torgersen and others announced that volunteers are needed to place lights along a designated portion of Main Street. In addition, the city is requesting that each business decorate for the holidays.

Sewage and the City: A ten- to fifteen-yard-long grease plug was found in the city sewer lines. According to Blaine Porter, city employee, without the recently purchased sewer tool, the plug would have remained fixed in position. The mess caused by the plug unpleasantly affected South Central Communications. A number of citizens and council members engaged with one another and the mayor regarding this repeated difficulty. A suggestion was made to pour a grease-eating chemical into the sewer system. Some citizens voiced concerns regarding the use of potentially toxic chemicals and possible impact on animals. The city may consider use of the sewer camera to ascertain the source(s) of the grease. Once determined, a hefty fine could be levied. All establishments that cook and serve the public are required by law to have grease filters. The city is legally liable for any untoward effects from dangerous sewer build-up (Ed. Note by Jean Bramble: Think: methane explosion, disease). Used grease is to be put in containers and disposed of in those containers. Commercially used grease is to be put in special containers. The toxic waste specialist who services Ruby’s Inn has signaled willingness to come to Escalante and pick up locally generated commercial grease on the same trips. His name is available from the city: 826-4644.

Daylight Savings Time Ends this Saturday night. Clocks should be turned-back one hour. (Fall back!)

From the Mayor’s Desk: it seems to me that we didn’t have a summer; it came and went so quickly. Now we are into fall and our Thanksgiving time. Before you know it winter will be upon us! The work on the reservoir is moving along, our airport is being paved at this very moment. We planted lawn at our park and things are looking good there. What’s next? Have you ever thought about starting some community education classes for the winter? Maybe we could have some around the world cooking classes, or cake decorating, music, woodshop, or maybe even woodcarving, or a painting class or two. The sky is the limit. We have a lot of talent in this little community! Now what else can we do as a community? We need to look for job opportunities; we need to get our support behind our sawmill. What about an assisted living center? I’m sure many of you have some GREAT ideas; don’t be afraid to share them with our city council and me. You never know where the next idea will come from. I appreciate all of you, and all that you are doing. Let’s work together to make Escalante the Best Community ever. Remember Escalante is a great place to live.

News Around Town - October 20, 2010

Escalante City Council met on Tuesday, October 19, 2010. During the Personal Comment portion of the meeting, one citizen spoke of concerns about streetlights on 100 West. Although city workers have recently replaced the bulbs, some of the street lights have ceased to function. The City made a commitment to remedy the problem lights.

Planning and Zoning reported that Justin Fisher will be attending a P & Z meeting in the very near future to advise the committee on ordinances involving subdivision of property. Copies of the proposed ordinances continue to be available at the City Offices. It is possible that the new ordinances will be ready for final approval by the 16th of November, but will certainly be ready before year’s end. An “alternate” on the Planning and Zoning committee is needed in order to insure a quorum. The City will post this open position and anticipates making an appointment at the next City Council meeting.

A representative from the EMTs approached the Council asking for funds to assist with continuing education requirements for those who volunteer in the emergency program. There are now six EMTs on the team; previously there were five. Costs have gone up. Each EMT has been paying for some portion of his or her expenses, but with escalating costs, an increase in the amount provided by the City is requested. Mayor Taylor and the Council, after some detailed discussion, opted to authorize the full amount ($1,000) existing in the budget at this time. They recommended that the EMT representative approach the Council next May before the second education session is held. Funds in excess of the City’s annual budget may be available at the end of the fiscal year.

A design and a bid for the new Fire Department sign have been submitted. The bid was for $1,500. While the bid is not considered excessive for a metal cut sign, the City will look at other estimates.

There are approximately 600 accounts on the City water system. Of those accounts, twenty-two have been using the electronic payment system offered by the City. Of those who use electronic payment, most use the system offered by their bank. Recently, the company, which historically has billed each patron $49, has announced intent to also bill the City $9.95 per month for the service. The city workers were directed to negotiate with the company. The city’s electronic billing will be retained if the fee is waived. Letters will be written to the twenty-two customers to inform them of the situation.

The next City Council meeting has been changed. The date has been moved to Wednesday, November 3rd. Thereafter, meetings will return to the first and third Tuesdays of the month. As usual, citizens are encouraged to attend. One citizen was heard to comment, “This is a remarkably participatory meeting. It’s wonderful.”

Bodies in the dumpsters are against the law. Similarly, tree limbs, appliances, large furniture, mattresses and construction waste are all designated refuse for the Sanitary Landfill. (Some people in town call it the dump, but the politically correct term is “Sanitary Landfill.” Call the City at 826-4644 to arrange a time to go to the landfill or contact one of the many citizens who carry a key in order to make this resource more available.

The Escalante Canyons Art Festival Committee held a recruitment event this week. A number of bright, new people were present and other interested people who were unable to attend sent word. Committee goals for the forthcoming year include providing new ways for artists to sell their work, recruitment of additional patronage for the event and involving more people in the community, including teenagers, in the festivities. Anyone who wishes to be involved may do so by calling Dana at Escalante Outfitters: 826-4266.

“Health is not simply absence of sickness.” (Hannah Greene). The grant application for the expanded Kazan Clinic moves toward completion. Over 200 letters of support from Escalante citizens will be included in the application. People from Boulder have also written supportive letters and those who have spoken with Boulderites describe much enthusiasm for the new option for health care in Escalante. Because over 300 people from Garfield County seek services in Wayne County, the healthcare committee anticipates more patients at Kazan. This week‘s issue of The Garfield County Insider includes detailed articles regarding questions and specifics of the plan and proposal. In addition, citizens may contact members of the Healthcare committee with questions.

To Shred or Not to Shred. Many of us throw our routine paperwork directly into the trash which then goes to the dumpsters. Sightings of personal information in and around the dumpsters have caused concern due to the potential for identity theft. It turns out that once paperwork leaves the owner’s property, it is no longer legally private. Although dumpster diving is a misdemeanor, picking up somebody else’s personal paperwork from public property is not illegal (Supreme Court decision). We are fortunate, in this community, to have the option of burning some trash. Paperwork containing personal information should be shredded or burned. No one wants the two-year headache of having to re-establish his or her financial life following an episode of identity theft.

So That’s What the Guys at the Golden Loop are doing! Steven Johnson says that it’s what makes coffeehouse innovations so much more impactful than market-driven interventions. “If you look at the long view, the good ideas that underlie most of the great changes in our society—that have driven progress--more often than not actually have roots in the open kind of information commons of the [Escalante] coffeehouse…. in those environments, ideas are free to connect with each other and build on top of each other,” he says. “That remixing is really where great ideas happen.”

From the Mayor’s Desk: Mayor Taylor asks to be excused from Newsletter duty this week.

News Around Town - October 8, 2010

This post contains a summary of the City Council meeting held September 21^st as well as a report of the meeting held earlier this week.

The Escalante Newsletter is available in print, as well as online. For those who prefer to read from real paper, the newsletter will continue to be available in the usual places.

A number of comments were presented to the Council during the City Council meeting of September 21^st. A citizen described concern regarding fire hazard due to the high weed population coupled with dry conditions. Continued difficulties with dogs in the City were also described: dogs chasing horses, dogs barking at night and disturbing sleep as well as upsetting guests in local businesses. Citation histories were described.

Main Street plantings and beautification were discussed and will be on a future agenda. Interactions between our City and the Federal government were addressed and a suggestion made that the City work to increase interaction with the Federal Agencies such that we may have input into decisions affecting our lives.

The Council passed proposals that had cleared Planning and Zoning. A representative from The Daughters of the American Republic presented a proclamation for Constitution Week. Our librarian described plans for the new library shelves and obtained permission to hmove forward. Fees for group use of the Lion’s Club

Pavilion at the City Park were discussed. Prior to establishing a procedure for making reservations, the City will review our contract with the state. Capital improvements and the Policy and Procedures Manual will be reviewed at the next Council work meeting. A city worker described the need for a new flow meter to replace the (finally) defunct model.

Officer Jared Dunton requested that all calls for his assistance be made through Dispatch, rather than his private phone. Dispatch number is 1-435-676-1134.

An efficient forty-five minute City Council meeting was held October 5^th. New citizens to the community were recognized and welcomed by the Council. A representative of the Healthcare Committee described progress toward an enhanced clinic. IHC/Garfield Memorial Hospital, the Garfield County Commissioners, Wayne County Community Clinic and Escalante City are preparing to sign a memorandum of approval for the proposed grant. A community meeting will be held in Boulder to inform citizens there about potential clinic improvements. Planning and Zoning expressed thanks to those who attended the recent Public Hearing.

A Fire Department Auxiliary has been started. A representative from the group asked for and obtained the City’s permission to engage in fund-raising. The Auxiliary is open to everyone. Councilperson Torgerson will be evaluating the purchase of a lawn mower with bagger. Regarding the ‘weed issue’ (see above), the City determined that a letter would be sent to all residents as well as out-of-town property owners regarding the need for weed control. City Council announced the one and five year Capital Improvement Plans. Plans for Holiday Decorations were initiated, as were plans for an updated emergency plan including a “phone tree.” The Policy and Procedures Manual has been updated. Fire Chief Porter discussed water capacity and flow and described work with the Insurance Services Offices in rating the town of Escalante. These ratings affect the insurance costs to all of us. Councilman Allen described continued work with Armstrong Engineering regarding seal coating and asphalt for the airport. Due to recent weather conditions, these plans are on hold. Roads continue to be monitored by Mr. Allen and Mr. Dunn as abnormally high rainfall continues.

On Wednesday, October 6^th, a public hearing was held in Panguitch regarding the impact on air quality by mining at the planned Alton mine. The meeting was reportedly not publicized outside Kanab. Because the three representatives from the State of Utah were restricted to discussion of air quality only and may not have had full information regarding monitoring criteria and processes, citizen participants are asking for an extension of the public comment period. Currently, public comments are welcomed only through the 14^th of this month.

Heard Around Town: “He’s better than Nixon” (Referring to Mayor Taylor!)

The Healthcare Committee met twice this week. Endorsements from Chris Coombs, regional vice president (South West region) of IHC and Alberto Vasquez, administrator of Garfield Memorial Hospital have endorsed the plans for further improvement of the clinic. Letters from individual citizens have been sent to Boulder, to Gina Flanagan at Wayne County Community Clinic, to Escalante City and to Mr. Vasquez. At this time, more than 70 letters have been received in the city offices. Letters of support or those describing healthcare experiences in the community are being sought in the next two weeks. Lori Coleman has a form letter which may be used. She can be reached at the South Central offices or at loric@socen.com. Elaine Lott is available to help anyone who would like assistance in writing a letter. A “question and answer” informational form will soon be available. Collaboration with Boulder is occurring. Three members of the Community Healthcare Committee will attend a Boulder City Meeting to provide information about plans for an expanded clinic in Escalante. Particular concern regarding access to emergency medical care during winter months has been expressed. (Roads over Boulder Mountain and ‘the Blues’ will not be plowed during night hours due to state budgetary constraints).

Late Breaking News: Mayor Jerry Taylor announced the signing of the City’s portion of the letter to accompany the Community Health Center grant application. The City Council completed the letter by adding their signatures.

The Escalante Canyons Art Festival concluded its annual event on September 26^th. The festival was a success and uncovered at least one more skilled artist: Arina Mortensen won the People’s Choice Award. City businesses were active. Community organizations & charities, new and old, made money for various causes.