Caledonia Board to discuss 2025 budget, development and debt

The Caledonia Village Board will meet at to address significant decisions that could impact property taxes, local development, and public services.

Key issues include the proposed , the Thomas Farm Subdivision , and a plan to borrow $9.495 million for infrastructure upgrades. These discussions will shape the village's growth's future and affect residents' daily lives.

Read more: Agenda

Here's what residents need to know about the top five items on the agenda:

The board's review of the is a key item on the agenda. The budget will shape how the village allocates funds for essential public safetyroad maintenance, and staffing services. Village officials will discuss how much property tax revenue is needed to maintain current services and consider potential adjustments to the village portion of property tax bills.

Why It Matters: The decisions made in this budget review will directly affect critical services like police and fire protection, road repairs, and staffing levels across village departments.

Impact on Residents: Budget decisions will determine how much property tax you pay and the quality of services you receive. It's essential for residents to stay informed on how their tax dollars will be spent.

Thomas Farm Subdivision: New Housing Proposal

A presentation by Bear Development will detail the proposed Thomas Farm Subdivision, a 62-lot residential development covering 27.69 acres near Five Mile Road and Charles Street. The revised plan incorporates changes after feedback from the public and village planners, reducing the number of lots and altering the layout.

Why It Matters: This new housing development could bring more families into Caledonia, potentially increasing demand for village services and impacting local infrastructure and traffic.

Impact on Residents: The subdivision could change the character of the surrounding neighborhood, affecting property values, traffic patterns, and local amenities. The board will also consider waivers on conservation and open space requirements, which are important for moving the project forward.

Borrowing $9.495 Million for Infrastructure and Public Safety

The village will consider issuing $9.495 million in general obligation promissory notes to fund critical infrastructure upgrades. These funds will support improvements to the water and sewer systems, road repairs, enhancements to Crawford Park , and purchasing a new fire truck.

Why It Matters: Infrastructure is the backbone of village services, and this borrowing will help ensure that Caledonia can maintain its facilities and services as the community grows. However, issuing debt increases the village's overall financial obligations.

Impact on Residents: Some debt will be repaid using revenue from Tax Incremental District No. 4 (TID 4). However, property taxpayers may need to cover the difference if revenues fall short. Understanding how this borrowing will affect future tax rates is crucial.

Wage Scale Updates for 2025: What It Means for Caledonia

Village officials will discuss proposed revisions to the village wage scale for 2025. These updates include reclassifying the Zoning Administrator and Planning position, adding a new Human Resources Manager, and adjusting wages for key positions.

Why It Matters: Competitive wages are necessary for attracting and retaining qualified staff, particularly as Caledonia grows. The human resources and zoning departments are crucial in managing village operations and overseeing development.

Impact on Residents: While increased wages will help ensure the village is well-staffed, they will also increase the village's overall budget. Residents should be aware of how these wage adjustments could influence spending and, potentially, their taxes.

STH 31 Sanitary Laterals Project: Bids Rejected, What's Next?

The board will discuss the STH 31 Sanitary Laterals Project, which involves replacing and installing sanitary laterals along State Highway 31. The village received only one bid for the project, which was 250% higher than expected, leading officials to recommend rejecting it and reconsidering their approach.

Why It Matters: Infrastructure projects like these are essential, but managing costs while ensuring value for taxpayers is crucial. The village's rejection of this bid highlights its challenges in balancing cost-effective solutions with necessary upgrades.

Impact on Residents: Delaying this project could affect homeowners near Highway 31, but rejecting a high bid demonstrates the village's commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Why You Should Attend the Village Board Meeting

Oct. 8 Village Board meeting will address critical decisions that could shape Caledonia's future, from new housing developments to infrastructure improvements and the 2025 budget. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting or follow updates closely, as the board's decisions will affect property taxespublic safety, and the overall quality of life in the village.

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