Emo council vows to deal with unsightly property

An Emo resident brought property standards to the forefront of council’s regular meeting last Thursday night regarding a neighbour’s land in a residential area.
The man noted when he moved there several years ago, his own property was in need of some upgrades and care, which he took charge of.
“I am discouraged by the lack of my neighbour’s care for their property,” the resident told Reeve Russ Fortier and Couns. Ken Fisher, Ed Carlson, and Gary Judson.
He explained he and another neighbour had approached the owner and offered to purchase the currently uninhabited property (to no avail)—and even took it upon himself to cut the grass there every so often.
“I was hoping it would encourage [the owner],” he remarked.
The resident noted several risks and safety hazards, such as skunks, mice, and squirrels taking shelter in the house and shed, the dead trees being a danger to those walking by, and the uncut grass as a fire hazard.
“I’ve come to make an appeal for you to take action,” he indicated. “We should be able to promote a safe community and be proud of the way it looks.”
Reeve Fortier noted a letter had been sent to the owner in the past and another one will be issued.
“As neighbours, you have gone far beyond your duty to help,” the reeve added. “And it will be dealt with.”
In other business last Thursday night, Emo council:
•decided upon six locations for water meters;
•agreed to purchase an eight-inch pump for the water treatment plant in the amount of $9,976;
•authorized to send members of council and staff to the Rainy River District Municipal Association general meeting today (May 17) in Fort Frances;
•agreed to a request by the Emo Walleye Classic committee to have a portion of Front Street blocked off during the boat parade and to place “no parking” signs there during the tournament;
•agreed to participate in the Emo Walleye Classic boat parade on Thursday, May 25;
•approved support to the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association in its effort to call upon the federal government to immediately reject the softwood lumber deal with the United States; and
•authorized purchase of four tires needed for the Kubota riding lawnmower.
Emo’s next council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 23 at 7 p.m. at the municipal office—a day later than normal due to the Victoria Day holiday.