AUBURN – The Auburn City Council approved additional paving for the Westgate housing project at its meeting Monday.

Graham Construction was authorized for $164,206 to pave a block and a half of U Street. The project includes reconstruction of U Street between 16th and 17 streets and replacement of driveways.

A change order was also approved regarding testing of the sanitary sewer. Since a water emergency has been declared in Auburn, the contractor has had to haul water from Nebraska City to test the sanitary sewer main. The city approved an additional $1,057 for the expense.

The city issued a water update last week saying a full reservoir of 22 feet has been maintained for 1.5 million gallons, but drought continues and the Auburn Board of Public Works is looking outside of the area for a supplemental water source during times of extended drought.

The board credits customers for conservative water use and says non-essential water usage remains necessary until there is enough rainfall to recharge water sources.

In other city council action Monday, the council voted 5-0 to expand the size of accessory buildings in the residential zone. An accessory building shall not be bigger than the square feet of the main floor living space of a residence.

Christian Sharp was announced as a new member of the Auburn Volunteer Fire Department.

 

Mayor Chris Erickson proclaimed April 25 as Arbor Day urging citizens to protect our trees and woodlands.

The proclamation says Arbor Day was established in Nebraska in 1872 and is now observed across the nation. The proclamation says trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.