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Thurston allocates $321,000 in 284/CHIPS funding, board urges long-term road plan
Summary
Following an 8.5% state funding increase, Thurston expects about $321,000 in CHIPS/284 highway funding; the board earmarked $228,000 for work on 54 miles of roads, $95,000 toward a new truck payment, and $90,000 carried into next year while members pressed for a formal five-year capital plan.
Supervisor Michael Volino told the board the recently passed state budget provided an 8.5% increase in highway aid and Thurston will receive about $321,000 under the 284/CHIPS program. The board agreed to allocate $228,000 for work on roughly 54 miles of town highways, earmark $95,000 to apply toward the remaining payment on a 2025 ten-wheel Peterbilt, and carry $90,000 into next fiscal year.
Board members debated priorities for the funds at length. One resident urged that the money be used for road work rather than equipment payments; Board Member Daniel Gee and others said the town needs a planned, prioritized approach rather than reactive pothole repairs. The board asked the supervisor to explore options for creating a five-year capital/road plan and considered hiring a consultant or providing trainings for the highway superintendent. The board also discussed ditching as a summer priority, and that certain equipment repairs are not reimbursable through CHIPS.
