The Helvetia Town Board held its regular meeting on Nov. 5, 2024, at the Town Hall, chaired by Jeff Oppor, with all board members and four town residents present. Key decisions included approval of the 2025 budget with a 1 percent levy increase, actions to resolve recurring water quality issues at the town hall, and infrastructure updates across town roads.

One of the most pressing issues discussed was the well water at the town hall. Repeated test failures raised concerns, which the board traced to an outdated pressure tank and an unused line leading to an exterior faucet. The board approved hiring a plumber to replace the tank and seal off the unused line, following a motion by Mike Grassl and seconded by Justin Hintz.

A public hearing on the 2025 budget preceded the board meeting. After deliberation, the board approved a new town levy of $173,079, reflecting a modest 1 percent increase from the previous year. The motion, introduced by Mike Grassl and seconded by Justin Hintz, passed unanimously.

Discussions about improving town hall facilities resulted in two key decisions:

Ceiling Updates: Justin Hintz will continue researching options for replacing ceiling tiles.

Cleaning Equipment: The board approved the purchase of a cordless vacuum cleaner, prioritizing convenience and efficiency for maintaining the space.

Road maintenance and repairs

The board addressed several road maintenance updates:

Completed Work: Moen Road repairs were finalized, and signs marking loose gravel are set to be removed.

Ongoing Projects: Chad Bestul is overseeing grading and gravel work on Carper, Klope, Hay, Phelps, and Jensen Roads. Additionally, a sinkhole on Stony Ridge Road will be patched by board members Mike and Justin.

Signage Updates: The 35 mph sign on Aanstad Road has been replaced, while a weight limit signpost on Campbell Lake Road is scheduled for replacement.

Future Planning: Letters will be sent to property owners on Carper and Westhill Roads regarding upcoming brush-cutting efforts.

The board noted the approval of a comprehensive plan change for James Stolz during a special meeting on Oct. 22. It was also reported that the Open Book session on Nov. 4 provided taxpayers with the opportunity to clarify concerns with assessor Kelly Zillmer.