Jackson board directs staff to advance 2026 capital plan after debate over Eagle Drive, wastewater and fire equipment

The Village of Jackson board on June 10 directed staff to proceed with capital project planning for a draft 2026 budget after an extended discussion about street, utility, park and public-safety projects.

Administrator Heitke said the packet before the board was “an update to our capital improvement plan,” and proposed moving the Eagle Drive reconstruction from 2027 into 2026 while delaying a larger Hasmer Lake Park construction project so staff can pursue grant funding.

The move matters because shifting projects changes potential borrowing and levy impacts and because several projects discussed carry six-figure price tags or rely on outside funding. Heitke told the board staff will determine funding sources — including debt, grants and special assessments — during the budget process and that final funding ability remains to be determined.

Most of the evening’s debate focused on Eagle Drive, a corridor stretching between a new roundabout at Highway 60 and Hickory Lane. Jack Strahler, director of public works, told the board, “The Eagle Drive construction project is slated for approximately 2,200,000.0, which will include the full bridal reconstruction, drainage ditching, and a proposed 5 foot paved shoulder with street lights.” He added the village is proposing to add a sidewalk concurrent with the road work; adding sidewalk with the road project carries a proposed $150,000 cost plus land…