Baxter decides where to place welcome sign on Highway 371

BAXTER -- Baxter's entrance sign is being installed at Isle Road and Highway 371.

The $25,000 sign welcoming motorists to Baxter will measure 14 feet by 16 feet.

"The goal was not just to put up a regular sign but one that made a statement," said Baxter City Administrator Larry Kruse, adding the city wanted to invest in a high quality sign that blended with the scenery and complimented the new Highway 371 corridor. "We wanted a sign that greets people with a warm welcome."

Darrel Olson, council member-elect, said when he talked to residents many were concerned with the cost and the hypocrisy of putting up a large sign while Baxter is trying to keep billboards off the new Highway 371.

The entrance sign will measure 220 square feet, while a billboard measures 660 square feet.

The sign was a source of controversy in September when Baxter began constructing the sign in Crow Wing Township, about 100 yards off the Mississippi bridge on the new Highway 371.

Township residents were upset with the placement, and Baxter officials apologized and stopped construction.

The new site, Isle Road, is located north of County Road 48.

The sign is expected to be completed and put in place by Christmas.