County to reconsider streetlight project in downtown Rogers City

by Peter Jakey, Managing Editor

Based on some of the comments coming out of the July 10 meeting of the Presque Isle County board of commissioners, there?s a renewed interest in Rogers City?s ongoing streetlight project. Rogers City manager Mark Slown, appearing during the public comment period, wanted to bring the offer back before the county for their consideration, especially since the manufacturer corrected defects that made them illuminate dimmer than specified. While the county board wasn?t interested in April, they appear ready to re-examine the city?s proposal.

?I?ve had a lot of people tell me they are a lot better,? said commissioner Mike Grohowski. ?I think it is worth re-considering.? Fellow commissioner Mike Darga agreed, saying the lights are 90 percent better. IN APRIL, the county board voted not to contribute funding for additional streetlights around the courthouse.

The board had concerns about the new lights on Third Street. Slown said the original light ?malfunctioned.? He added, ?all the lights have been replaced by new lights, which are three times brighter.? A city public hearing on the project, there were no objections raised to a continuation of the new lights. ?Th

erefore, the Community Development Authority (CDA) offers the county?the opportunity to reconsider their decision,? stated Slown in a letter to the county dated July 8.

Slown commented that the streetlight project improves the appearance of the downtown. ?The county seat is the heart of the downtown and should match the look and style of the downtown,? stated Slown. SIX ADDITIONAL lights for the Huron and Michigan Avenue sides of the courthouse are estimated at a total cost of $85,800. The CDA is requesting the county pay only the cost of the lights, poles and concrete bases, estimated to be $30,600.

Slown stated the cost could be spread over two years, ?if the county desires.? Through a grant and its own funding, the CDA will pay the remaining $55,200 which will include engineering and other installation costs. ?This is a good deal for the county!? Slown concluded. No action was taken. The matter will now face further review.

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