Recycling charge has to go up

Cadott residents are already paying $3.25, per month, to offset what the village pays to provide curbside recycling services. But, as was discussed, July 7, at the village board meeting, that monthly fee may go to $4.26.

The village receives an annual $2,500 Chippewa County Recycling Program Grant, but still has more than $6,000 come out of the general fund, each month, to cover the cost of recycling. It was pointed out that if the village can’t afford to pay for the majority of the services, residents will need to come up with the entire cost on their own.

In doing the math, the increase would only be $12.12 a year, for residents.

“I think that’s fair,” said village trustee Eric Weiland. “Everything’s going up and we have to keep going up, or else there are going to be bigger jumps in the future.”

Speaking of costs, the board had good news, as they received five proposals from lenders, to fulfill their contribution for the upcoming County Hwy. X project. The lowest interest proposal, which was accepted, came from Johnson Bank, which is extremely competitive. Because of that lower rate of 3.95 percent, the estimated $1,009,000 the village expected to pay, dropped to $985,000.

“It’s saving the village interest,” said Peter Meidal, with Ehlers.

The board also approved Ordinance 2025-7, amending the B-2 Highway Commercial District and Defining Corner Through Lot, and approved a site plan and a Conditional Use Permit, all for the planned remodel of the Citizens State Bank drive-up location near State Hwy. 27. By completing the upgrades, the bank wants to provide an exceptional banking experience and modernize its facilities, to better serve the community.

Members also approved a Conditional Use Permit, for a hobby farm in the A-1 Agricultural District, for Joseph Lehman.

They also appointed current part-time police officer Jesse James, as interim police chief, with the same rate of pay as the former chief. The board felt that with the experience James has, he is a good fit for the community and position.

“The sooner he starts, the better,” said village president Randy Kuehni.

During the meeting, Weiland, who also serves as a firefighter and paramedic, implored residents to make sure they have a house or fire number. Recent calls have shown the emergency personnel, that they can’t always respond to a call, if they don’t know where they’re going.

“If you want to get help…that’s how we find you,” said Weiland.