By Jacob Wilson/Garden Grove Journal
The Westminster City Council made the streets safer for students and approved a local home for lost animals during its June 22 meeting.
First, by the time Westminster students go back to school in the fall, four flashing signs that tell drivers how fast they are going will be installed at intersections that are near schools and don‘t have traffic signals.
A sign will be placed at McFadden Avenue and Dalewood Lane. That intersection is near McGarvin Intermediate and west of La Quinta High School. Another sign will be placed at Bushard Street near Marshall Elementary School.
More signs will be placed at Edwards Street and Humboldt Avenue and at Bushard Street and Oasis Avenue. The expected cost to the city is $438,000. A grant for almost $600,000 from California’s Safe Routes to Schools Program will pay for the project.
And when it comes to animal control, what happens in Westminster will stay in Westminster. The council approved a one-year contract with the Westminster Veterinary Group for animal shelter and veterinary services for the city and the Westminster Police Department.
Beginning July 1, the Westminster Veterinary Group will be responsible for the housing and care of animals seized by WPD animal control officers as well as for strays and abandoned animals. The group will also provide adoption, euthanasia and disposal services to residents.
The contract includes four consecutive one-year options, so unless the city chooses not to renew, the partnership could last five years. The first-year cost to the city is $70,000.
Westminster Veterinary Group didn’t provide the lowest bid, but its location and ties to the city made it the best choice. It is just one mile from the WPD and has been in business in Westminster for 10 years.
The Orange County Humane Society’s bid was more than $3,000 cheaper but only included one option year instead of the required four.
Councilmember Frank Fry missed his second meeting but is recovering from a recent hospital stay, according to Mayor Margie Rice. “He is home now and receiving phone calls,” she said. “He’s improving daily.”
The Council will meet again on July 13 at 7 p.m. Meetings are held at 8200 Westminster Blvd in the Council Chambers.
