There was a war at our house on Christmas Eve. The whole family got together to spend time, take our annual photo on the front steps, have our gift exchange, and have dinner together. We try to make the day about enjoying each other and having fun. But, despite our best efforts we ended up at war.
You see, one of the aunts gave the grandsons laser tag guns as a gift. The house and the yard quickly turned into a war zone between adults and kids in various combinations. Fortunately, the war’s intensity wore down at about the same pace as the adult’s stamina. It was just so amazing how quickly conflict can arise so unexpectedly. However, just as quickly, Peace reigned once again in our home.
OK, change of subject.
Since this is the beginning of a new year, I thought I would take the time to just go over some of the things that the City has accomplished for you in the past twelve months.
In the way of projects, the City used over $1,000,000 in Covid money received from the Federal Government to rehabilitate one of the water towers that was in need. After the project started and the water tower was drained, it was discovered that the interior roof had significant issues. A patch could be applied that might last 5 years or we could replace it entirely. The City Council rightly chose to dip into the Water Department’s reserves to the tune of about $500,000 to replace the roof. Now, the City will have a like new water tower that should last from 50 to 70 years at about a fifth of the cost for a new tower.
Also, final word has arrived granting $2,000,000 in federal funds through the Idaho Transportation Department to repair/replace the Monroe Creek bridge on Commercial Street and make other needed repairs and improvements on that street.
In addition, the City received grants to replace the playground equipment in Memorial Park. Most of the monies are federal funds that came by way of the Idaho Department of Commerce. However, $30,000 came from the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation and their efforts at promoting the Social Determinants of health.
With the influx of housing and new businesses in Weiser, a Design Review committee was organized to look over the plans for the new businesses and make recommendations for landscaping and appearance to ensure the businesses have an attractive “Weiser” look. The committee also researched and proposed a landscaping ordinance for new businesses. The proposed ordinance went through the process of public hearing, Planning and Zoning approval, and was ultimately approved by the City Council. The Committee has done a great job!
Also, at the next City Council meeting the Council is set to approve a new Comprehensive Plan, the first for the City since 1999.
As you may know, within the City staff there were changes organizationally to how the City operates. Due to personnel changes, numerous duties were distributed amongst members of the staff. The staff involved did a truly amazing job of stepping up to the plate to learn new duties to ensure that the City continues to work effectively.
Other changes within the City offices, include updating the information technology and security system, the ability to receive and pay utility bills online, completely revamping personnel policies, and providing an Employee Assistance Program to assist employees with questions involving their personal lives, finances, and even legal questions.
There have been other achievements this past year and more in the process. These are simply some of the more significant ones. The City will continue to work to provide you with the services and improvements to make Weiser a great place to live, work, and play.
Well, that’s it for this week. May you have a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year!
You must be logged in to post a comment.