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The January 2016 meeting of the Hancock City Council started with the 4th Quarterly report from Hancock Police Chief Wayne Butler. He reported that the number of complaints and calls the department received has decreased since last quarter, but increased from the first two quarters of 2015. A seemingly high number of calls were from citizens getting locked out of their residencies. Butler says he is trying to work with landlords to make this a non-police issue.
The chief also wants citizens to be aware of their visibility when walking in the streets. He recommends wearing bright colors when out walking or running, especially at night. This is increasingly important in the winter months when vehicles are unable to stop as quickly due to icy roads.
During public comments, the council and public were updated on snow removal status. The snow crew has been working overtime, since last weekend’s storm, to plow and remove the snow from high priority areas. It was added that hauling away the plowed snow is nearly impossible to accomplish on the same night that plowing occurs.
A public hearing was held to discuss applying for a $20,000 grant toward a new police patrol vehicle. Chief Butler explained to the council and public that 2 of the 3 Hancock PD patrol vehicles have over 100,000 miles. He added that it’s important for patrol vehicles to be in optimal condition for emergency circumstances and reliability.
City Manager Glenn Anderson reminds the public of upcoming bridge testing and nighttime closures in the last week of January. Expect intermittent closures between January 25th and 29th . During these closures, drivers should expect 15-30 minute delays between 7pm and 4am. The lower deck of the bridge will be closed to snowmobiles during the testing period.
Finally, the Hancock City Council is currently accepting applications for the open Ward 2 seat. Applications will be accepted until 4pm on Monday, February 8th.
Council action on this position is planned for the next monthly meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, February 17th.
