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Local residents speak out on sirens, Stop signs

RANDOLPH — The Randolph City Council heard comments from citizens about its recent decisions to reduce the town’s whistle frequency, prompting an agreement to put out a survey on the issue.

At its March meeting, the Council decided to reduce whistle frequency to sound only at noon and 1 p.m. The 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. whistles were eliminated.

The emergency whistle is a different whistle and has not been affected by the council’s action.

Dan Tunink said the city whistles have bothered him for a long time.

“It is deafening around the stands at ball games,’’ he said. “It is not located in the proper place. Technology has given people cell phones, watches, alarm clocks and made whistles unnecessary. When we have visitors here, it is annoying. I have seen children cry at ages 2 to 5 when the whistle blows.”

Theresa Schnoor agreed, saying she has appreciated a change in the whistle schedule.

Others spoke out about reinstating the 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. whistles.

“It is an old tradition, and a lot of people want it,” said Larry Lackas.

Paul Loberg said he looks forward to the 6 p.m. whistle to let him know it is supper time while he’s working.

Neil Lackas said every town in the state has a whistle that blows — to the disagreement of several City Council members.

Don Nordhues said he grew up in Randolph and loves the whistle but does not want it moved to the water tower which is near his home.

Jim Scott said if the whistle is moved a study may need to be completed to see how it would affect birds.

Neil Lackas said the council needs to make a decision and that it was the first time citizens had the opportunity to voice input. However, the issue was put on the agenda prior to its passing at the March Council meeting and no one from the public attended to voice their opinions at that time.

Once complete, the whistle survey will be available electronically on the city website and through paper at the city office. The city will review the results of the survey and discuss at a future council meeting.

Mayor George Bradley said it has been his experience that surveys don’t have a high response rate and that he understands that whistles may provide citizens a sense of small-town community.

Along with comments about the whistle frequency, citizens were also heard about the council’s recent decision to put up stop signs near the city park with a goal to slow down traffic.

Lackas said more should be done with enforcement with more police presence in those areas and more warning tickets given to speeders.

Darin Loberg said stop signs could be placed at every corner and there would still be speeders. He said habitual speeders will not be stopped by stop signs because they will need to speed even more to make up their time for stopping.

“I am not faulting the stop signs,’’ he said.

Schnoor said it is better to be proactive and that police can’t be everywhere.

“The stop signs are making our town safer,” she said.

Dan Tunink said he and his wife understand the need for the stop signs near the swimming pool.

“There are so many bikes,’’ he said. “It is a dangerous street near the swimming pool. I see a problem there. But people that aren’t speeders can also cause accidents. People can be distracted and cause accidents. Kids dart out in that area.’’

In other city news, Administrator Ben Benton said the city now has a cell phone designated for after hours emergencies to be more available to citizens who need help. The phone number is 402- 337-9522.

At its meeting last week, the city council also:

• Approved an enclosed sand box be constructed by Gage Jensen as part of an Eagle Scout project. The city will buy the materials and Jensen will do the work, starting in May. The project will cost $1,500 and existing grant funds from Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District can be used.

• Discussed repairs needed at Rosberg’s buildings on Broadway Street. Engineers have reported bricks falling off the building. The door has been open for some time and someone painted graffiti. “I need someone to show me what needs to be fixed,’’ he said. “I want to sell sheep and lambs to Muslims.’’

• Heard a presentation on the city’s audit from Kyle Overturf of AMGL.

• Discussed repair work needed on the police car.

• Approved the selling of a Ford F-500 A that is not running because of an electrical shortage. A $600 bid is being asked.

• Heard an update on the pool opening set for May 24. An informational meeting has been set at 6 p.m., April 20, at the city auditorium to discuss the proposed aquatic center.

• Entered executive session to discuss personnel.

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