April 17, 2024
The subject of the April Eggs & Issues was the State of the City- Altoona. It took place at the River Prairie Center on April 12, 2024 at 7:00 a.m. Altoona Mayor Brendan Pratt and City Administrator Mike Golat led the presentation.
Mayor Pratt started off the presentation talking about the completion of the River Prairie project. He said that the TID would be extended for one year in the next budget. The TID is expected to bring in approximately $6 million. The city plans to put that money towards affordable housing.
Golat first discussed the growth in the city. Since 2020 there has been a 12.38% growth in population. The rising population also means demand is up for services.
Some challenges the city is facing include rising costs, affordability of housing, the closure of HSHS, infrastructure, recruiting/workforce, and levy limits.
Some future priorities include opportunities for economic growth, sustainability, space needs, regional cooperation, aging infrastructure, tech needs, and quality of life.
Economic Growth
Residential and commercial growth remains strong. The city has been looking at the benefits of using compact development. According to Golat, using compact development preserves open space, more efficient transportation, reduced sprawl and more.
Sustainability
The city has partnered with Eau Claire Energy Cooperative, Xcel Energy, and Dairyland Power Cooperative to implement their energy policy goals.
Space Needs
The city purchased a building for their public works department to move into. The fire department is moving into the old public works building. The city also received a grant to add an addition to the police department.
Regional Cooperation/Infrastructure
Altoona is a part of the Rural Partners Network. They also partner with Eau Claire county for their EMS services and have been working with surrounding communities regarding the HSHS/Prevea closures. Finally, they worked with Eau Claire for the reconstruction of Fairfax Street.
Posted by Mallory Williams, Governmental Affairs Intern
williams@eauclairechamber.org