The Jenkins City Council recently passed a resolution to support the expansion of Highway 371 between Nisswa and Pine River.
Tim Bray of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) told the council Monday night that MnDOT is trying to be proactive and meet with the affected communities for support.
MnDOT has also approached Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Wilson Township and Pine River to pass resolutions providing general support for the project.
The coalition of government entities will seek federal funding for the project with the help of Congressman Jim Oberstar, District 8, chairman of the House Transportation Committee.
The four-lane expansion is currently slated for 2018, but the coalition hopes to receive funding to start the project earlier.
Ballpark progressing
The city's ballpark, next to city hall, is progressing. The council hopes to have the ball field up and running by early June. The council anticipates spending approximately $14,000 for fencing and backstop fencing.
On April 30, the council will find out if the city will receive a Twins' grant they applied for to help pay for fencing. The council passed a motion to take additional funds, if needed, from the fine fund. Council members plan to buy the fencing from the manufacturer and use volunteer labor to erect it.
Insurance coverage
The city's insurance policy will be renewed June 1, and Mark Jurchen of Lakeland Insurance Agency recommended coverage changes to their policy, including:
Increasing the $50,000 Fidelity/Faithful Performance bond through the League of Minnesota Cities to $100,000. The additional cost to the council would be approximately $100 per year.
ÊAdding workers' compensation coverage for the mayor and city council members when conducting city business.
Passing a resolution to retain the liability coverage limits of $500,000 per individual; $1.5 million per accident, through the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust.
