by 
Mayor Debra Sommers
In any company, organization or community it is important to look back and review your progress. Looking back, should be a reminder of where you have been as you keep pressing forward on goals.
Mayor Debra Sommers of Kearny recently shared some of the most recent accomplishments at the Town of Kearny over the past eight months since she has been at the helm. She credits the success of the accomplishments to the hard work of the council and staff for the Town of Kearny.
Fiscal responsibility and services remained important to the council. A new solid waste contract was approved and residents did not receive a rate increase for waste removal. A five year budget forecast was completed a balanced budget for 2017-18 and the tax levy was adopted. The approved budget included a 2% raise for all employees. The Town’s financial software Caselle was updated to provide staff more efficient tools to manage the Town’s finances.
Planning and infrastructure was a priority. The Council finalized and approved the 10 year General Plan for Kearny. This plan will guide economic development, growth and planning for the Town. The Community Development Block Grant was approved to make needed repairs to the Waste Water Treatment Plant. Water well number eight was repaired and is now working. The teen center was refurbished, the doors and locks were repaired.
A new police chief was hired, new computers for the Police Department were installed and a new ambulance was ordered to further improve public safety for the residents and visitors of Kearny.
The once defunct waterfall and drip system at the rail park was repaired with the support of ASARCO. This welcoming feature for the town was repaired at no cost to the Town due to the generosity of ASARCO.
The Council celebrated the Ray High School Softball team for their State Championship victory with a special proclamation at a council meeting. Special pool parties were planned to encourage more participation at the pool by the youth and families of Kearny. The Town remained supportive of community activities such as Pioneer Days, Little League and Soccer.
To keep the momentum going of progress, the Town has applied for many grants to further the mission and improve operations for the Town of Kearny.
Learn more about about your local leaders and Town operations by attending the Kearny Council meeting. Every third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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