RANIER — The Ranier City Council unanimously voted to send a letter to state officials requesting a meeting regarding concerns about delays from the Canadian National Railway crossing in Ranier Tuesday.
Trustees Dan Klocek and Brenda Bauer were absent.
County engineer Doug Grindall was unable to attend Ranier’s meeting, however, he sent a letter to the council asking for their support in requesting a meeting with CN officials, and state and federal highway officials.
The council held little discussion on the issue before voting to support Grindall’s request.
Concerns stem from issues brought to the Koochiching County Board Feb. 8 regarding the CN crossing on County Road 24, also known as the Van Lynn Road.
CN train delays and the impact that has on school bus schedules, students, and residents in the Van Lynn and Ranier areas will hopefully lead to a public meeting about the issue, officials say.
The county board previously heard from Jeff Veeder, Falls School District transportation director, who said that trains blocking the only entrance and exit to the Van Lynn Road and Ranier have delayed school bus routes numerous times. Grindall’s letter pointed out that the delay also creates problems for students who are waiting for the bus in frigid temperatures.
In other business, the Ranier Liquor Store’s January profits were down significantly from last year. The year-to-date net profit is $511, which is down $3,048 from last year’s total of $3,559.
