City commission approves $100,000 loan for Burton

By RALPH ANSAMI

[email protected]

Ironwood — Following a public hearing, the Ironwood City Commission on Monday approved a $100,000 loan for Burton Industries.

The loan for “working capital” will come through the city of Ironwood state of Michigan Community Development Block Grant program and will create five jobs for the business that operates out of the city’s industrial park.

City Manager Scott Erickson noted Burton previously borrowed from the city and repaid the loan on time.

There was no public comment at the hearing.

Dale Cook, of Northern Initiatives, which administers the revolving loan fund for the city, said since public funds are involved, the hearing was a necessity.

Erickson called it a “very good project.”

The city commission also authorized bids for both the Depot Park playground equipment project and Curry Park electrical improvements. The projects have received Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund grants for $37,500 apiece. The city will match both projects with $12,500 in labor and local contributions.

The DNR has approved bid specifications for both projects.

In other business Monday:

—Mayor Annette Burchell appointed Gemma Lamb and Randy Korpi to the board of review.

—Erickson appointed Joseph Cayer Jr. to the Ironwood Housing Commission. Another opening remains.

—Joseph F. Cayer and Tom Bergman were reappointed to the planning commission.

—Burchell appointed Jackie Haig to the library board.

—Paul Kostelnik was appointed to serve an unexpired term on the parks and recreation committee.

—An appointment to the Patrick O’Donnell Civic Center board of directors was tabled.