The town’s board of trustees reviewed and amended a building incentive program that would provide rebates for new construction within the Town of Meeker limits. The resolution provides rebates for new structures constructed between January 2020 and December 2022.
The board also discussed water tap fees. Town Manager Lisa Cook said it’s difficult to compare Meeker’s fees with similar communities, because Meeker charges by the size of the tap. The board discussed ways to make the tap fees “economic development friendly” while still protecting the town’s resources.
Town Manager Lisa Cook updated the board on BLM plans to create a connecting trail between Ute Park and the popular China Wall trail. BLM plans to start construction on the connecting trail Sept. 26.
“This is an economic driver we need to pay attention to,” said Mayor Kent Borchard.
Trustee Melissa Kindall suggested adding a BMX track and a dog agility test into Ute Park in the future.
“Those are some things we should mention to our consultants,” Borchard said. The Town is working on renewing its comprehensive plan.
The board also reviewed a safety plan for the Meeker farmer’s market and discussed the 4th of July parade and other summer events.
“We’re going to have a lot of special meetings this summer in order to accommodate these events and approve their plans,” Cook said.
The board agreed to establish a committee to review summer event plans in light of COVID-19.
Trustees reviewed applications for business grants from local businesses forced to close down during the Stay at Home order. All requests submitted on time were approved.
Mayor Kent Borchard asked if it would be possible to set up a separate location at Town Hall for an office, which the board approved. He also said new Pioneers Medical Center CEO Liz Sellers identified employee housing as the “No. 1 problem” they’re facing.
The board has a joint meeting with the planning commission scheduled for June 8 at 5:30 p.m. to hear a presentation from Chris Hale about the northwest part of town.
Cook said Police Chief Thompson has interviews planned for a sixth officer and said the town has candidates for a new municipal judge.
The board approved a $500 donation to the Meeker Mustangs Makeover, matching the 2019 donation.
By NIKI TURNER | [email protected]
