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Plans to revitalize Hills Rez underway

By
Mavis Fodness

Hills city officials are asking volunteers to help clean, repair and revitalize a popular recreation area west of the city.
The first groups will help with spring cleanup Friday and Saturday.
Council member Stacen Burgers outlined his ideas at the city council’s April 13 meeting.
“I think it will be a great start to get some groups in there and do a little polishing,” he said.
The council also discussed ideas to improve the public’s experience camping, swimming, hiking and fishing at the Hills Rez Park.
“There are so many people that go down there,” said council member Vicky Busswitz. “The place just needs to be kept up.”
Students from the Hills-Beaver Creek Secondary will complete the initial cleanup on Friday, weather permitting. The action is part of the school’s Earth Day cleanup lessons.
“Giving back to our community and being good stewards of the environment are important to our students and school,” said Principal Andrew Kellenberger.
Beaver Creek Sportsmen members will work with Burgers Saturday to set the dock into the water and begin work on the larger improvement projects such as tree trimming, mowing, weeding and reconditioning the sand at the beach.
“It just needs to be turned over and then some fresh (sand) added to it,” Burgers said.
The council will also examine the current playground, walking path and fishing conditions.
Burgers said he talked with an aquatic specialist, who indicated that the Rez is an ideal fishing location but sediment is a concern.
“The little pond is a great fishery,” he said. “The water quality is there. The little things we can do (will help.)”
The city council is gathering costs for the improvements and materials, and as many projects will be completed this year as possible within the current budget.
In 2019 the parks and recreation fund had revenues of $42,000 and expenses of $33,000.
Council members suggested “Adopt a Pad” program, where individuals and groups would fund improvements to one or more of the seven camping pads located at the Rez.
Burgers will develop a detailed revitalization plan as work progresses.
“This is something I am passionate about,” he said.
 
Cabin available for rent at the Rez
The Hills City Council approved the purchase of a 12-by-24-foot cabin to be placed in the Rez Park and rented for overnight stays.
The cabin arrived April 13 and was moved into place on the park’s west side.
“I think it will be a great addition,” said Mayor Keith Elbers.
Cost of the cabin was $6,200 plus the costs of adding bunk beds, electricity and cabinetry inside the cabin.
The cabin is anticipated to be ready by Memorial Day weekend, Elbers said.
Council members set rental at $50 per night with a 10-day maximum stay. Reservations and a $100 deposit can be made at the Hills City Offices by calling 507-962-3290.

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