Elk Point town council, in a three-and-a-half-hour special meeting last Tuesday, successfully tackled the interim 2024 Capital Budget, interim 2023, and 3-year operating budgets.
The session also covered new business items resulting from the cancellations of the regular council meeting planned for November 14.
A notable decision involved deferring participation in a Regional Service Study set to be revisited during 2025 budget discussions. Elk Point staff, with over 65 years of combined planning experience, expressed confidence in handling the matter internally.
The council rescinded a resolution from the October 26 Airport Committee meeting, highlighting differing opinions on Elk Point Airport’s future. Other decisions included approving a quote for signage replacement on the Elk Point Fire and Rescue building, closing a street for a Christmas parade, and allocating funds for a right-of-way needed for future sewer installation.
In a forward-looking move, the Elk Point Investment Corporation, representing 10% of Askiy Asiniy, scheduled a public hearing for the December 11 regular council meeting to support a hemp-building clock business with a $500,000 contribution.
The council also carefully examined and approved various budget plans, including the 2024 Draft Capital Budget, the 10-year Draft Capital Plan, and others. However, the 0224 Interim Operating Budget faced scrutiny due to a 16% increase in expenses. CAO Ken Gwozdz advised caution, emphasizing the need to offset costs through industrial land sales.
Despite challenges, the council passed the Interim Operating Budget, concluding a comprehensive and deliberative session.