By KAREN PARKER
County Line Publisher Emeritus
At the village caucus Jan. 8, Ontario residents chose four candidates to appear on the April ballot.
Competing for three open spots, incumbents Sue Rego, Doug Broxham and Travis Ford will defend their seats, and only Dean Clark will challenge the incumbents.
Also, Mike Parr was chosen to fill the seat recently vacated by Josh Curtis.
Other business
• Sue Blanchard, who heads the economic development committee, was given permission to consult with the DNR on Ontario’s flood plain and how that designation may affect plans to build bathrooms. The bathrooms would have outdoor access and would be attached to the Ontario Community Hall.
The board also discussed the possibility of converting the hall’s old shower rooms and recycling center into bathrooms, which would not change the footprint of the building.
Additionally, the board gave Karen Parker permission to work with the Vernon Economic Development Committee to seek grants to renovate the hall.
On a related note, village clerk Terri Taylor reported the donation of $300 to the hall fund from Teal family.
• Police chief Phil Welch reported that he will start working with Viroqua-based law firm Jenkins, Stittleberg and Menn on cases that come before his department.
• Public works director Paul Gibson was told to develop some options for replacing the sewer-plant doors.