EGF makes a U-Turn on federal funding issue

East Grand Forks will utilize federal money to subsidize a reconstruction of 10th Street Northeast.

In the past month the city council has gone from using the $860,000 “subtarget” dollars for a roundabout on Bygland Road…to a mayoral veto…to the 10th Street project.   Mayor Steve Gander broke a three-three council tie last night in favor of the $2.29 million dollar reconstruction.

Council President Mark Olstad says the industrial park road is a worthwhile project that will help spur future development.

Council member Clarence Vetter argued for the roundabout saying it’s the only project that meets current federal guidelines.  “The federal government wants to make sure this is a project that has been vetted…that it has been studied…with public input.  They don’t want pet projects that say let’s do this road.”

Council member Tim Johnson – not present for last night’s vote – previously had supported the roundabout project.

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The East Grand Forks council rejected a development plan last night (Tuesday) to rezone three lots on Riverview Lane to allow twinhomes.  The land is currently zoned for single family homes.  Developers say the build would have a similar look to the twinhomes on the Kings Walk Golf Course in Grand Forks.

Several neighbors showed up to voice opposition to the plan – which had the support of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

The council rejected the request on a five to one vote.