By City Times staff

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – During his monthly update, Mayor Shane Blaser talks about options for offsetting street construction and maintenance costs and the upcoming Mayor’s Youth Council project.

City considers options to offset street construction and maintenance costs

“In response to growing concerns around special assessments, city staff performed a review of the special assessment process and identified funding options that might serve as a substitute for most special assessments,” Blaser explained.

“In September, staff presented the options to the Public Works Committee and created a webpage for the public to learn more. Thank you to everyone who responded to our public survey.

“Due to the many positive reasons outlined in the Special Assessment Evaluation of Alternatives report and the results of the public opinion survey, staff recommended the development of a transportation utility as a fair method to fund a sustainable street maintenance program and to potentially lower property taxes.

At the Nov. 17 meeting, the Wisconsin Rapids City Council voted in favor of the Public Works Committee’s recommendation, directing staff to prepare a Request for Proposals (RFP) and soliciting aid in developing a transportation utility plan and financial evaluation.

“I strongly believe this is an innovative, fair way to pay for these expenses,” Blaser added.

Learn more at wirapids.org/special-assessment-alternatives.

Mayors Youth Council developing winter event

“Mayor’s Youth Council is hard at work planning projects for the school year and their first project will be a fun outdoor winter event at the WRRC (Wisconsin Rapids Recreation Complex,)” Blaser said.

“Timing for this event is weather dependent, so I encourage you to follow their new Facebook page at facebook.com/WRMayorsYouthCouncil to keep informed on their projects.”

For more information on the Mayor’s Youth Council, visit wirapids.org/mayors-youth-council.