Changing of the cans

A successful can redemption center in Hartley has changed hands.

Keith and Jackie Stoltz handed over the keys to the Hartley Recreational Trail Committee last week. The Stoltzes had operated and processed donations at the local depository since 2018, with all proceeds going to Hartley's new pool. More than $30,000 was raised thanks to local contributions of cans and bottles.

"We appreciate the community's ongoing support and hope Hartley continues that by donating to the trail," said Jackie. "It has been amazing how much we've raised."

Rec trail committee members Dave Vander Broek, Dan and Justin McCarty, Nicole Shaffer and Laura Mohni will now assume the Stoltzes' role. Vander Broek said the group is still learning the ropes, and "formal training" will take place in the coming weeks.

The Hartley Recreational Trail Committee is leading efforts to build a path around the City With a Heart. Originally proposed this spring, the group is collecting donations and helping plan the new addition. If constructed, the 14-foot wide trail would encompass Hartley starting at Neebel Park for total distance of approximately four miles. It would be paved with cement and ideally have a gravel shoulder, which is a better surface for joggers.

The cost per mile of trail is approximately $400,000. So far, the rec trail committee has hosted a fundraising omelet brunch and has also applied for a grant through the O'Brien County Community Foundation.