Permits can be applied for in the Vergas City Office, Vergas Hardware Store

By Robert Williams

Editor

The Vergas Planning Commission discussed its recent change to the burning ordinance, which mandates anyone burning in the city limits needs to acquire a city permit first.

Permits can be applied for in the city office or Vergas Hardware.

Commission member Jim Courneya noted it is possible most residents are unaware of the issue, as he has burned in the city limits before and not gotten a permit. He suggested notifying the community of the change.

A city permit is needed to notify local fire departments as that is not done through the DNR permitting process. The DNR permits do notify area 911 services.

The full burning ordinance can be found on the city website by searching “burning.”

Nuisance properties

The Planning Commission put an increased emphasis on nuisance properties in 2024 and that list is now down to only three properties at 339 E. Frazee Avenue; 101 E. Mill Street and 415 S. Unit Avenue.

Lawrence Lake Acres

The Commission approved an adjustment to the boundary line of the second addition of Lawrence Lake Acres, which will allow for a direct access road to reach lot six rather than stretching a road from the proposed cul-de-sac that centers lots 2-7 and across lot five. 

The change will also save a large amount of mature trees on lots five and six. The Commission’s unanimous recommendation is for the city council to approve.

Members

The Planning Commission is seeking another member after approving the resignation of Judy Kvam at the Monday, March 25 meeting.