The arrival of winter in Ely prompted some reminders Tuesday as they relate to snow removal.
During the regular city council meeting at City Hall, clerk-treasurer and operations director Harold Langowski noted recent snowfall, the start of the winter season and snow removal operations by city crews.
“Things have started to be plowed,” said Langowski. “I just wanted to remind people to move your cars if your vehicles are obstructing the alley, or they will be towed.”
Langowski added that there are also “some vehicles still sitting on the street” that need to be moved, and that city officials are working with the police department to rectify the situation.
Meanwhile, Langowski also said Ely residents and business owners need to be aware of city ordinances related to snow removal.
“As people contract for snow removal, you cannot push it out of the parking lot onto the street or onto boulevards,” said Langowski. “That’s something we deal with every year and something we have to follow up on.”
City officials are also asking residents to aid in the snow removal process.
“We’re just trying to make things easier for everybody, all residents,” said Langowski. “Keep your sidewalks clear. Support your letter carriers as they deliver your mail and packages by keeping sidewalks shoveled.”
Langowski also indicated, upon questioning by council member Al Forsman, that residents and business owners are ultimately responsible should a contractor violate the city’s snow removal policies.
In another winter-related note, the city outdoor ice rink - located at the recreation center on Main Street - is being readied for the season.
“We are starting to prepare the outdoor skating rink for this winter’s use,” said Langowski. “We did post for an additional rink attendant, and we’re hoping to have the rink open in the next week, week-and-a-half.”
The snow-related information was part of a busy night at City Hall, which included council discussion of the lodging tax issues and the city’s Truth in Taxation hearing (see related stories).
In other business, the council:
• Accepted Margie Olson’s resignation from the city’s housing and redevelopment authority and noted that John Lahtonen will have completed a third, three-year term by the end of the year, prompting the city to advertise for applicants for two three-year positions on the board.
•Approved tobacco license renewal applications for 2026, pending payment of fees and completion of necessary documentation.
• Approved a temporary liquor license for the Ely Folk School for a Dec 13 event at Semers Park.
• Approved a lease with the Ely Dog Park Association for the dog park located at the softball complex.
• Rezoned property at 900 East Miners Drive from public to commercial.
• Set up Dec. 16 public hearings on ordinances related to noise control, special events and interim use permits. The hearing takes place at 5:15 p.m. at City Hall.
• Approved a 2026 preliminary budget submitted by the Ely Utilities Commission.
• Approved energy rebates of $1,298 to the Boathouse Brewpub and $1,895 for the Trailhead Building.
• Approved a comprehensive plan steering committee application form as recommended by the planning commission, with the addendum that applicants must either be city residents or property owners.
• Approved residential rehabilitation loans for Stacy Villard and Frank Ivancich.
• Approved the purchase of a Boss plow for a utilities truck, from Trembath Machine and Welding for $9,855.
