Jim Colvard

The public hearing on the proposed 2024 budget for the Town of Chetek, Barron County, includes a summary of the 2024 proposed budget, revenues, and disbursements. The special town meeting of the electors will approve the total 2024 highway expenditures and adopt the 2023 tax levy to be paid in 2024.

The Town of Chetek held a public hearing on the proposed 2022 budget. Key discussion points included revenues from shared revenue, highway aide, fire dues from the state, licenses and permits, and interest. Disbursements covered general government, public safety, community service, reserve for equipment and transportation costs. A special town meeting of the electors was also convened to approve total 2022 highway expenditures and adopt the 2021 tax levy to be paid in 2022.

The meeting will cover various topics including the treasurer's report, building inspector report, public input, CSM, subdivisions, variances and plat approvals, liquor and operator licenses, roads and equipment updates, driveway permits, land use and sanitary permit listings, and a local roads grant update. The board will also review bills, approve checks and electronic payments, set the date for the next regular meeting, and discuss the proposed budget for 2026.

The council meeting included discussions and actions on several topics. These included amending the Municipal Code of Ordinances, authorizing payments for various services and equipment such as the camera system in the Police/Fire station and culvert piping. Appointments were made for the Municipal Court Judge and Prosecuting Attorney. The council approved a Financial Services Agreement, a renewal of a Special Use Permit for mine stabilization, and an agreement for Tasers and related services. Certificates of Appreciation were distributed to volunteers, and nominations were approved for the Missouri Municipal League Citizen of the Year and Truman Heartland Citizen of the Year awards. Other topics included updates on park improvements, discussions on potential development opportunities, and reminders about code enforcement and nuisance violations. The Fire Department received approval for a fund raiser/tribute to a volunteer mechanic, and the hiring of part-time staff was approved for Mike Onka Hall and the gym. A Board of Zoning Adjustment needs to be formed.

The council meetings covered a range of topics, including approval for Sullivan Brothers to paint the Public Works building, authorization for payments to Altec for lift truck repairs and to Ace Pipe Cleaning for sanitary sewer repairs. The Mayor acknowledged contributions to the July 4th Parade and Fireworks. Discussions included the removal of a garage sale sign, plans for street improvements, and difficulties in filling open police department positions. Spire Easements and a potential increase to water rates were slated for future discussion. Other topics included Domino's dumpster location, inspection of Old Stix & Stones, and a fallen tree on River Blvd. Issues related to storm debris, Republic trash/recycling, and the cutting of tall grass were also addressed. The Fire Chief discussed homeless encampments, and the Parks & Recreation department discussed open gym nights and a basketball tournament.