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Mayor Tom Norton gave a nice overview of the existing road conditions in
Greeley, did a comparison with road conditions in other cities in Colorado and
discussed means that funding for upgrading and repairs to our roads can be
accomplished. Due to many reasons, the infrastructure of Greeley has
deteriorated over the last several years, to the point many of our roads are
approaching a stage were repairs are not a reality, only complete replacement.
The main routes are in the best shape as they see the most wear and tear and
funding goes to keep them up first. The arterials are where most of the
needed repairs exist.
Tom said there are several options now being considered to increase the
funding for road maintenance. One is keeping a food tax that currently
exists, but has a sunset date that is fast apporaching. This tax puts
about 3 million dollars into the road maintenance bucket. Another
consideration is adding a tax that will be dedicated to road maintenance.
This will be accomplished by increasing the sales tax by a percentage, most
likely about one half percent. It is estimated this will increase the
available funds by around 10-12 million dollars per year.
Tom was adamant that if we don't act soon the road will deteriorate to the
extent that repairs would be much more costly, if even an option. The city
council will continue to discuss the various options and we may see one or more
of the options on our ballots this fall.
Mayor Tom and Prez Ron | 