TOWN OF WORCESTER NOTICE OF ARIP GRANT FUNDING AND PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

[My Northern Wisconsin]

   

OPINION - LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Written By:  Anthony Sleck, Phillips, WI

TOWN OF WORCESTER NOTICE OF ARIP GRANT FUNDING AND PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

The Town of Worcester has been approved for an Agricultural Road Improvement Project (ARIP) Grant in the amount of $1.8 million. This funding is intended for the reconstruction of Little Chicago Road.  However, the reimbursement from the grant will cover only 87.7% of the total project cost, up to $1.8 million, and will only be issued upon the completion, submission, and approval of all necessary documentation.  Any costs exceeding the grant funding will be the responsibility of the taxpayers.

Project Funding and Financial Implications:

The total estimated cost of the project exceeds $2 million.  The Town of Worcester is required to fully fund the project up-front before being considered for reimbursement.  This includes an initial expense of $100,000 to hire an Engineering Firm to survey the sub-structure beneath Little Chicago Road.  At the Tax Levy Meeting in November 2024, it was stated that there are no funds in the town's budget allocated for road reconstruction.  Despite this, the town board intends to proceed with the project as soon as possible.

Purpose and Justification of the Project:

The ARIP Grant aims to improve roads affected by Spring Thaw Postings, allowing them to remain accessible without seasonal weight restrictions.  However, according to public statements, there have been NO instances requiring Over Weight Permits for Little Chicago Road.  It has also been asserted that, absent the grant, Little Chicago Road would not require reconstruction.  The justification for prioritizing the project over other township roads in greater need of repair remains a matter of public concern.

Impact on the Community and Township Prioritization:

The completion deadline for the project is set for 2028 (at latest).  Until then, taxpayer funds will be committed to the project, delaying potential repairs to other roads within the township.  Given the significant financial implications, concerns have been raised regarding the prioritization of this project over other roads in need of repair.

Over the past decade, Little Chicago Road has undergone numerous repairs, raising questions about the necessity of the reconstruction.  Accordingly, concerns have been expressed regarding conflicts of interest among the past and present town board members with connections to the road.

Public Awareness and Transparency:

Transparency issues have been noted concerning the town board's handling of this project.  At the February monthly town meeting, it was stated that the board was NOT supposed to inform the public about this project.  Given the substantial financial commitment required from taxpayers, the lack of public consultation is a significant concern.  The town board is urgent to provide full disclosure of this project, allowing for community input before further action is taken.

Conclusion and Call for Public Engagement:

The Town of Worcester residents are encouraged to seek further clarification regarding the financial strategy for this project. It is imperative that the town board addresses public concerns and provides detailed information on the fund, necessity, and long-term impact of the reconstruction of Little Chicago Road. The community has a right to full transparency and involvement in decisions of this magnitude.

For further inquiries or to express concerns, residents are encouraged to attend town board meetings and request official documentation regarding the projects planning and financial arrangements.

Written By:  Anthony Sleck, Phillips, WI

Read the related story at this link.

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The Phillips Public Library, located at 286 Cherry Street in Phillips, has lots of activities and events planned for this month.  Visit the library's website for more information.