Common council members in Whitewater held a meeting Sept. 2 to discuss ongoing developments, public safety updates and events impacting residents.
City manager John Weidl highlighted the recent completion of the repaving of Walworth Ave., which is now open to traffic. The project was largely funded through an urban grant from a federal surface transportation program, with 80 percent of costs covered by the state and 20 percent covered by the city. The project included curb work and resurfacing to increase safety and address deteriorating conditions. The upgrade is expected to improve traffic flow and enhance public safety.
In addition, Weidl provided an update on the city’s lead service line replacement initiative.
“The lead service project continues with approximately 70 of the 360 laterals remaining, which means the project is mostly complete, and we were aiming to be done by the first week in October,” Weidl said.
The project aims to remove all lead water service lines to improve water quality.
The meeting continued with discussion of the Whitewater police department swearing in a new officer, Jack Bridleman, who is currently completing his law enforcement academy training. Bridleman is scheduled to graduate on Sept. 9 and will begin his duties with the department shortly after.
The council followed by discussing the city’s special response team recently concluding its annual firearms and gas mask training, ensuring preparation for high-risk situations. In a community-focused effort, the Whitewater police department also participated in the annual school supply giveaway held at the Whitewater Armoury. This event helps support families and students for the school year ahead.
It was noted that the Whitewater Fire Department responded to 49 emergency calls between Aug. 14 and Aug. 20, averaging seven calls per day.
In economic development, Teronomy Builders Inc. has applied for permits to construct new duplex units in the city, allowing for more housing options for residents.
“Teronomy, which hasn’t built anything in a bit, has pulled eight new permits for duplexes in the waters edge south subdivision,” Weidl said.
Officials have also announced the groundbreaking at Hartland Shores, a development that will add 32 new housing units to the community. These projects aim to address Whitewater’s housing challenges and provide a wider variety of accommodations.
Progress continues at the city’s public library, where construction fencing has been removed as renovation phases move forward. Library officials have shifted the curbside pickup to a new main entrance on church street. The library also announced the Community Gardening Club, inviting residents to partake in designing and planning a new public garden space. A brainstorming session is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 19, at 4 p.m., located at the library.
City officials encourage all interested residents to get involved in Whitewater’s ongoing improvements.
