During a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant upcoming projects aimed at enhancing the town's infrastructure and addressing long-term planning needs. The discussions were rooted in priorities established during a council retreat held in January 2024, shortly after a council election that introduced a new member and staff.
Key topics included the need to stabilize the local police department, which is facing challenges due to the potential dissolution of the Unified Police Department (UPD). Officials emphasized the importance of retaining staff and fortifying the marshal's office to ensure community safety.
Another major focus was the assessment and management of the town's assets, particularly its aging water and sewer systems, which date back to the early 1970s. The town currently owns four buildings: the town office, community center, Alpha Central, and the historic Tom Moore toilet structure. Each building presents unique challenges, including accessibility issues and structural concerns.
The town office, built to withstand avalanche exposure, is noted for its lack of significant deficiencies, although it is not fully accessible. Alpha Central, a former dormitory, is over 70 years old and lacks modern specifications. The community center, a vital public facility, faces erosion control problems, while the Tom Moore toilet, a historic relic, is in a state of decay.
The primary goal of the upcoming projects is to assess the condition of these buildings and prioritize necessary improvements. Officials aim to create a facilities master plan that will guide future funding and project delivery, potentially leading to significant renovations or replacements of existing structures. The meeting underscored the town's commitment to addressing its infrastructure needs and ensuring the longevity of its community assets.