Dollar General runs into wet ground, revises plans for site

The new Gilman Dollar General was supposed to be up and running by late fall, but has hit a snag, after the WisDOT was not happy with the initial plan of the distance of the store’s driveway to the property to the west. So, as reported at a Gilman Village Board meeting Oct. 12, the DOT suggested moving the driveway east, but a wetland study proved that was a no-go.

“As you go further east, it’s complete wetlands,” said Jim Lundberg, director of engineering for the project.

The DOT then came back with the idea of Dollar General building a public roadway off the west property line, up to their driveway. Dollar General would dedicate the 66-foot right-of-way to the village, for any future development to the west.

However, neighboring property owner Jim Henricks had concerns his driveway would wash out, as his property is higher than where the store will sit. Lundberg was prepared for those questions and brought the blueprints of the parcel with him, showing that a substantial amount of fill will be brought in to make sure the grade is acceptable.

Henricks had no objections to the plans and the village board approved a revised plan for building at the site.

“For the most part, the community is looking very favorably on this,” said village president Jane DeStaercke.

With the extra fill needed and inclement weather on the horizon, the Dollar General will likely not be constructed by Christmas, as hoped.

“We’re looking at spring, if we’re lucky,” said Lundberg.

Something that did get completed, was the approval of Resolution 2022-9, presenting the resolution for the discontinuance of Drangle Dr./Hickory Circle (old nursing home parking lot property), as well as Resolution 2022-10, a public hearing on Resolution 2022-9, and Lis Pendens, for the discontinuance of Drangle Dr./ Hickory Circle and adjoining lots.

“We’re deeding it over to the new owners,” said De-Staercke.

The board also approved the coming water rate increase to take effect the day after the next meter reading in the 2023 quarter, but still need to agree on what constitutes as a structure, as the fire protection tariff needs to specify that. DeStaercke also noted that a slight misunderstanding occurred at the last meeting, as all residents who have use of village utilities, still pay for water and sewer services, even non-profit organizations, such as churches.

Also taken care of, was the appointment of a new trustee, to fill the empty seat vacated by John Novitski, for the remainder of his term. After candidates submitted a letter, stating why they felt they were a good fit for the board, a ballot vote was held by the trustees, with Russell Baker receiving three votes; Vonda Kinas two; and Joe Schmitt one.

Baker previously served on the board and was sworn in that night.

So residents are aware, Trick-or-Treating hours will be Monday, Oct. 31, from 5-7 p.m. A budget hearing is also set for 5:45 p.m., prior to the regular meeting Wednesday, Nov. 9.

Gilman Police Chief Tom Tallier says that there is still interest from multiple parties about getting more housing in Gilman, which is encouraging.

“That was a couple positive conversations,” said Tallier.