The Rippey City Council met on Monday evening April 5. Among the numerous items discussed, the Council was informed that a donor has provided funds for the installation of a light at the top of flag pole at the Walt Anderson Field, Rippey Baseball Park. In addition, a set of three of U. S. and Iowa flags were purchased. Funds were also made available by this donor for re-painting the flag pole.
A second donor has pledged up to $2,000 for refurbishing of the interior and exterior of the Rippey Baseball park concession stand. This will include a pulley system to more easily raise and lower the concession stand doors, installation of a sink, repainting the exterior, and any replacement of the floor that may be necessary. Bars will be placed on both exterior windows and plexi-glass clear coverings will be installed.
A request for the water fountain to be repaired will occur prior to the May tournament.
These improvements will be completed prior to the Sesquicentennial baseball game to be played July 31st. Efforts will be made to have the flags in place and the concession stand refurbished prior to the baseball tournament to be held May 14, 15, and 16th.
Council Members were asked to volunteer for one two-hour concession stand shifts, during the three-day baseball tournament, beginning with two games on Friday evening, with 4 games on Saturday, and completion with two games on Sunday. All game and concession stand proceeds will be used for continued improvements of the baseball field.
In other items pertaining to the 150th celebration, the City of Rippey will be securing a large metal dumpster/deposit bin to be placed to the north of Main Street, in front of the former City Hall building. This is being made available to City of Rippey residents for disposal of large appliances.
The following month, in an effort to improve the appearance of the town and remove collected junk in front of homes, another bin will be made available for trash.
These actions are being done prior to the 150th celebration. The City Council is using these measures as they recognize the need to improve the appearance of Rippey. If clutter, junk, and debris is not voluntarily taken to the dumpsters, it will be removed at the residents expense, along with a fine levied for being non-compliant.
Hard copy minutes may be read at the Rippey Post Office or online at the Rippey News web site.