The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) asked the Menahga City Council for suggestions about resolving unsafe conditions at the intersection of U.S. Hwy. 71 and State Hwy. 87.

The council mulled over its options at their Monday, Aug. 8 meeting.

Interim City Administrator Betty Thomsen reported that MnDOT was receiving calls that it’s difficult to see across parked vehicles at the intersection. Eliminating a parking space would be one idea, she said.

Public Works Director Ron Yliniemi said he spoke to a MnDOT official who proposed either a stoplight or a four-way stop.

“Can you imagine the traffic backed up?” asked Council member Durwin Tomperi, adding, “I say our best bet is to eliminate parking along the insurance company. It’s the quickest, easiest fix because they have plenty of parking in the back.”

Menahga Police Chief Adam Gunderson agreed that should be sufficient.

Council member Dan Warmbold commented that one car won’t make a difference. He preferred a four-way stop.

Council member Robyn Keranen proposed a roundabout, generating laughter throughout the room.

She made a motion to cut a parking space from each corner of the intersection and install signs that say “no parking from here to corner.” It passed unanimously.

Yliniemi reminded the council that MnDOT will have final approval.

In related business, the council did as follows: