KEWANEE WEATHER

Galva City Council finalizes parking ordinance


By Diana Whitney    May 22, 2024

Once again, most of the chairs at the Galva City Council meeting Monday were full, as the council voted to make additional changes to the city’s parking ordinance. The new rules will take effect in 30 days.

Council members voted to allow up to six items such as tractors, mowers, campers, construction trailers and boats on residents’ property, but no more than two of each kind will be permitted. In addition, there may be only three items within street view, with any others must be out of street view. Items must be maintained and comply with licensing requirements. Parking on the terrace is prohibited.

The time frame for allowing persons to stay in a recreational vehicle was expanded from 48 hours to seven days per quarter. The vehicle must be registered in the property owner’s name.

An additional farm tractor, used for such things as parades or shows, can be on the property for up to seven days prior to the event and for seven days after.

Alderman Jamie Hopping served as acting mayor in Rich Volkert’s absence. Hopping read the proclamation, designating Friday, May 24 as “Poppy Day” which pays homage to soldiers killed or wounded in battle. He introduced Charlotte Gravitt, who is the Galva American Legion’s “Miss Poppy” and she handed out poppies to the audience.

Charlotte Gravitt, Galva American Legion’s “Miss Poppy 2024” is shown with Galva’s Acting-Mayor Jamie Hopping, who signed the official declaration, recognizing May 26 as National Poppy Day. Gravitt, the daughter of Debbie and Mike Gravitt, is a member of the Legion’s Junior Auxiliary and will be a third-grader at Galva Elementary in the fall. [Photo by Diana Whitney]

Water and Street Supt. Greg Thompson reported that work on the pumps continues and, weather permitting, he expects the contractors, Peerless Well and Pump, to complete the project in another two weeks.

He also reported that Laverdiere will continue their work on the storm drainage issues at the park district.

Street Supt. Richard Plummer announced that Summer Clean Up Days will be from Monday, June 17 to Saturday, June 22.

The maintenance yard will be open for extended hours on these days:

June 17-20 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
June 21 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
June 22 from 7 a.m. to noon

Items that will not be accepted are shingles, anti-freeze, LP tanks, yard waste, paint, or any hazardous material. Tires will be accepted for a fee depending on the size.

Televisions and electronic components will be accepted for a fee at Eagle Enterprises during their normal business hours. Their phone number is (309) 932-2936.

For questions about Clean-Up 2024, call city hall at (309) 932-2555 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

John Wirth reported the recent car cruise-in was a great success, with approximately 250 enjoying the evening.

City Administrator David Dyer said that the Galva Cemetery looks very nice and is ready for the Memorial Day services.

Alderwoman Jackie Clucas thanked the audience for their interest in the parking ordinance.

“We are all neighbors to someone,” she said. “It’s important that what we do on our properties doesn’t negatively affect those around us.”

Alderman Doug Anderson thanked John Wirth and Dustin Williams for their input on the ordinance. The regular meeting was adjourned, and the council went into executive session.

The next meeting will be on Monday, June 24, at 6 p.m. at Galva City Hall.