Town of Hudson considers reducing budget by 10 to 15 percent

Talk about it

Town Supervisor Kernon Bast has proposed that the town of Hudson reduce its 2010 budget by 10 to 15 percent in an effort to save money in the current economic recession.

“It would be good for the government to take the lead once in a while,” said Bast, adding that this would be an “act of good faith.”

Johnson was also supportive of the idea.

“We could use it as a goal,” said Johnson. “And if the town can do it, why not the county?”

Johnson also had a few concerns, however, before fully agreeing to cut spending.

“The biggest issue is with the price of roads,” said Johnson. “They are the town’s biggest expense.”

One issue with the construction and maintenance of roads is the price of blacktop, which, due to the current stimulus package, is in ever-increasing demand, and price has already jumped over 7 percent from this time last year. Ultimately no action was taken at the meeting.

Roundabouts

“I don’t see the infatuations with roundabouts,” said Town Chair Jeff Johnson, commenting on proposed roundabouts on Hwy. 65 during his monthly road report. The roundabouts on Hwy. 65 at TT, Hwy. 12 and County G are scheduled to be completed in 2010. An informational meeting has been scheduled, the location, date were not available at press time, but can be obtained at the clerk’s desk at the Hudson Town Hall.

Willow Ridge II signs

“I have a feeling it’s going to be confusing,” said Supervisor Tim Foster of the proposed new street sign for local subdivision Willow Ridge II. Previously, the homeowners association of Willow Ridge II had asked the Town Board to approve a new street sign that would not only include the name of the street, but another full plate that would state the name of the subdivision.

A decision was made in a previous board meeting that if they would like the sign, they would have to pay for it. After this decision was made, however, there was no reply back from the homeowners association.

“We haven’t heard back from them — they’ve probably lost interest,” said Johnson, before tabling the item with no action made.

Wrap-up