03/07/2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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12.11:00 A.M. RECEIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING THE MOVE OF THE GRAND ISLAND POST OFFICE THE FROM DOWNTOWN LOCATION — Lancaster stated that there was a public meeting at the library but there was no public comment. They felt there was a need for an opportunity to submit comments or letters regarding the move. Lancaster requested that people sign in they can sign if they support of oppose the move and if they did not want to speak they could submit letters. Lancaster stated that she and Mr. Quandt represent the downtown area so they brought this forward. Lanfear encouraged people to write letters but the cutoff date is March 30 so it is important to get the letters mailed soon. He provided stamps if people wanted to send in comments. Mayor Jensen thanked the board for holding this forum to allow people to comment. He stated that he was contacted in January but USPS wanted to have the city council to hold the forum but he felt that it was not the right time or place to have a forum because it could be contentious so he declined. He suggested that they could use the library and he thought it was a public meeting. It was more a public announcement and he had a commitment at 4:00 but arrived at the library at 4:20 and the meeting was over. He was very disappointed it was just an announcement and they did not stay or answer any questions. He expressed concern that the decision may already be made and even if letters are submitted will they even be opened and he hope that is not the case. He noted that the downtown location is used people walk or ride their bikes to this location. He expressed concern that the location on Potash Highway is too far away and that intersection is one of the most dangerous in town. It is a state highway and there are plans to resurface it but no design changes. They are working to keep the downtown alive and thriving. He thanked the board for holding this forum and hopes that USPS will listen. Dave Taylor with the Economic Development Corporation stated they are opposed to the move and noted now important downtown Grand Island is, There is a constant stream of people and cars at the current location and he also expressed concern on the safety of the intersection at Hwy#281 and Old Potash. He submitted a letter Chris Rosacker with the Downtown Business District stated that they work on the business recruitment for downtown. It is important to maintain the vitality of down town, He expressed concern on the vacant buildings and expressed concern that it would be difficult to get someone to take over that building. He noted that they have template for letters set up if anyone would like to use it to send a letter. He is submitting a letter Mark Stelk stated he is opposed he owns 3 building down town and the use the post office location. It would be detrimental to have to go out to the other location. He has written a letter and they have letters for the public to use. Maren Fergusson, City Administrator submitted written testimony he expressed concern on the Hwy 281 and Old Potash intersection. They sent letters to the congressional delegation, to the senators, Congressman Adrian Smith and the City Council has a resolution that they will consider at the next meeting. They are opposed. Lois Nielsen 301 West Third and 207 West Third Street she submitted letters and she is opposed. Brent Linder, 1322 West John Street is opposed people make special trips down town to post office and may do other business they may stop to eat or drink at the down town businesses 7