Madrid Board supports Backpack Program, approves Housing Grant Match
The Madrid Village Board of Trustees approved funding for the community’s Backpack Blackout Bingo fundraiser and committed local matching funds toward a proposed housing incentive grant during its regular meeting June 8 at Madrid City Hall.
Board members voted unanimously to donate $350 in Keno funds to the Backpack Blackout Bingo program and waive rental fees for the community hall on July 22 and July 23 for event setup and activities. Julie Harger provided an update on this year’s fundraiser, which supports the local backpack program.
The board also approved adding $50,000 in Community Redevelopment Authority funds to the village’s budget as a local match for a new construction cash-match grant being pursued through Southwest Nebraska Betterment Corp. The funding commitment is contingent upon the organization receiving grant funds.
Amy Sauer and Stephanie Miller of Southwest Nebraska Betterment provided an update on the grant program during the meeting.
In other business, trustees approved a building permit submitted by Mason Brott for the construction of a lawn shed. Chairman Tony Ross abstained from voting, and the permit was approved on a 3-0-1 vote.
Utility Superintendent David Steinwart reported that water sampling and annual droplet testing for the village fogger were scheduled for June 10. He also discussed ongoing maintenance needs, including repairs to three manholes along the highway shoulder, spraying delays due to equipment issues, and potential budget items for park improvements and infrastructure work.
The board reviewed preliminary budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year. Trustees continued discussions on potential replacement of galvanized water lines throughout the community. The matter was tabled until July while village officials gather feedback from affected homeowners.
Trustees also tabled discussion of proposed playground equipment from the Perkins County Community Foundation Fund until next month.
The Madrid Health Board reported that certified letters will be sent to property owners with nuisance violations. Residents will have until July 13 to address concerns before a show-cause hearing scheduled for 7:30 p.m. that evening at City Hall.
Claims totaling routine operating expenses, utilities, insurance, payroll and professional services were approved.
The meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Madrid Village Board of Trustees is scheduled for July 13.