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THE ABCs OF TOWN GOVERNMENT
OCTOBER 2023 #35 Broadband Project update.
This month I need to update you on the Broadband Project. The Town of Buffalo has applied for two broadband grant opportunities both times just missing award "cut-off" lists largely due to the "local fund match" not being competitive. Recently, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission announced the release of additional broadband project funds (Federal funds administered by the states) and the Town of Buffalo Broadband Committee agreed to submit another application in late October but stipulated that any increase in the commitment of local funds (Town of Buffalo funds) was not realistic. On Tuesday Sept. 26, the Broadband Committee was informed that the project provider, Cochrane Coop Telephone Board of Directors, had agreed to significantly increase their portion of the project funding total. The numbers are still being developed but the significant increase from CCT will result in a grant application with greater than 50% local match and that projects to a far more competitive application. The Broadband Committe is also scheduled to have representation at the Buffalo County Financial Committee meeting on October 12 to make a case for greater county participation in the Town of Buffalo Broadband Project.
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The TOB Town Hall is again available for rental purposes, depending on dates and with certain conditions, limitations applied. Contact Claire Waters for availability and details.
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Occasionaly, there is an issue or announcement related to town business that seems to rise to the need to make contact with as many citizens as possible. One timely way to do this is through email contact. If you are not on the town's contact email list and would like to be, please contact [email protected]. This is used for emergency/important town business ONLY.
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APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEER HELP
The town would like to do a "Spring Clean" at the town hall and is seeking some volunteer help to make that possible. This would involve general cleaning chores in kitchen, store room, etc. The plan is to set aside some time in May/June to do this. If you are willing to help, contact Claire Waters (608 687 8419) for details.
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A new round of broadband grant money has been announced for Wisconsin with applications accepted beginning in August. On July 18 the Broadband Committee agreed to submit a grant application probably in late September or early October. The next committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday September 26, 6:00p.m.
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Several residents have reported seeing snakes around their home/yard or on local roads. This is not unusual in dry weather but somewhat earlier than other years. Keep in mind that not all snakes are rattlers but assume they might be and take care. One resident was given a name and number of a DNR snake contact person, Dean Edlin, 608.792.3054. They also got a tip of using cold water hose spray to move snake away from immediate area.
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The Town of Buffalo Board Supervisors have scheduled a dedication to honor the faithful service of Dennis M. Semling to the town and resident citizens. The service will recognize Dennis's contributions by presenting a permanant remembrance to be placed in the town hall.
TUESDAY JULY 25, 2023, 6:45 PM
Follow-up note: 30 family and friends were present for the rememberance time. Special thanks to Dan Rolbicki, Ridge Top, for his great work and contribution to the mount now hanging in the town hall in remembrance of Dennis.
Guess what? Have a reunion, birthday party, graduation or just a plain ole family gathering? Are you aware the town hall is available for rent?
Full kitchen, RR facilities, air conditioning, plenty of tables & chairs, use of park. Special rate for multiple days
Contact Claire Waters at 687-8419 for details.