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Council opens discussion on oxbow wetlands restoration; project funding still uncertain
Summary
Hudson council discussed a proposed oxbow restoration on donated land with estimated construction costs of about $469,655 and a $190,900 grant; council members disagreed on timing and maintenance costs and asked staff to return with refined numbers during budget planning.
The Hudson City Council held an extended discussion of a proposed oxbow wetlands restoration on land the city would receive by donation. Staff presented an estimated construction cost in the discussion of about $469,655 and additional costs of roughly $56,000, and said the city currently holds a grant of $190,900 toward the project.
Staff also reported they had submitted a letter of intent to Blackhawk Gaming for an additional $150,000 grant; if that award is approved, staff said the city’s remaining share would fall to roughly $184,755. Council members raised concerns about long‑term maintenance, silting and erosion, and potential opposition from a nearby developer who said he would be reluctant to support future projects if the city assumed retention areas.
Members noted the city already paid engineering fees cited in discussion as about $76,000 and that grant timing could require the city to begin work within the grant period unless an extension is granted. One councilmember said the project could be shelved and the engineering plans kept for future use until the city’s finances are stronger. No formal vote was taken; council directed staff to continue analysis and return with fiscal options as part of the budget cycle.
