Baraga Village Council in holding pattern over old rail property
BARAGA — The Village of Baraga held its regular monthly Council Meeting on Tuesday.
The Council discussed a standstill they find themselves in regarding the potential purchase of old railroad tracks which are intended to become trails. Another party has expressed interest in the tracks so the village is weighing options as they further discuss the issue with Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, L’Anse Village, L’Anse Township and Baraga Township.
The meeting continued with approval of the renewal of a three-year contract with public accounting firm Anderson & Tackman for auditing services for a price of $28,250 in 2024, $29,750 in 2025 and $31,150 in 2026.
Carl Rasanen was reappointed to the Baraga Housing Commission.
Council awarded Portage Lake Construction a contract to pour cement for two pickleball courts at a cost of $27,625. The fencing and painting costs of the courts are still undetermined, but details can be discussed for a period of time since nothing can be done to the newly laid cement for at least 30 days.
“You can step on it once it’s cured,” Village Manager LeAnn LeClaire said. “But you can’t put paint or anything on it. It will have to be barricaded off.”
LeClaire received a quote from Baraga Telephone Company for security cameras overseeing the marina. An incident had transpired where a battery was stolen from a pontoon boat which led to the need for better security. Once new cameras are installed, the visual range available on the marina will be expanded.
Two resignations were received by Baraga Fire Department.