March 8, 2023
Heather Floyd, from Valley Telecom, presented an update on the progress of the ACA grant to extend a fiber optics internet system across Patagonia. She apologized for the delay and explained the timing of the project had been stretched out by government processing times, particularly the processing of the initial Federal grant for the project.
The next phase of the project will extend the line from its present terminus at the high school throughout the town and to the homes and business of customers. There are 633 such entities who could possibly be served, Floyd explained. They will be putting in 11.5 miles of line within the town limits, hoping for a nine-month completion time. Speeds will be 110 Mbps for download and 20 Mbps for upload. Under Valley Telecom’s Affordable Connectivity Program, she anticipates residential cost for the service will be $64.95 per month.
A study session for the Town’s fiscal year 2024 budget was scheduled for March 15.
The Mayor and Council approved a special event liquor license for Community Homes of Patagonia, for a fundraiser event to be held at the gazebo in Central Park on Friday May 5, 2023, from 4-10p.m. Janie Trafton reported that they would have event insurance.
It was discussed that Caleb Weaver’s idea for benches for Doc Mock Park needed to generate more enthusiasm before being brought before Council.
The sale of a small piece of land at the right of way for Santa Rita Ave is to be placed on the agenda for the next meeting.
In answer to a question about an item in accounts payable, Manager Robinson explained that the Town is legally required to use the Court’s system to print and process certain court-related documents, roughly 1,200 sheets in the last year. There were no objections to this expense even though it was pointed out that the Town could theoretically buy and operate their own printer for less expense.
March 22, 2023
Mayor Wood had a question about an ambiguity in the Fire Department’s report process that Manager Robinson was able to clarify.
The Mayor and Council approved Mayor Wood in signing a petition declaring April 2023 as Fair Housing Month In Patagonia.
The Mayor and Council approved improvements to the Senior Center’s commercial kitchen, including stainless steel counters, worktables and possibly cabinets, depending on grant funding.
The Mayor and Council approved the sale of a 1021-square foot portion of land at 373 Santa Rita Ave.