The Caldwell County Fiscal Court approved a budget amendment, awarded a bid for new Road Department trucks, and received an update regarding a grant.
Judge Executive Kota Young said the County had received some good news and explained that the required 25 percent local match—over $100,000—for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Emergency Watershed Protection Program grant will now be covered by the state.
click to download audioThe grant will cover expenses for cleaning up creeks and the watershed impacted by the December 2021 tornado.
In unfinished business, magistrates gave unanimous approval to the second reading of the budget amendment for fiscal year 2026, totaling $289,900.
click to download audioDuring new business, Young explained that funds had been set aside in the budget to update the Caldwell County Road Department’s fleet. He noted that Wildcat Chevrolet submitted the only bid for the purchase of trucks, totaling $238,622.
During department reports, Assistant Fire Chief Jonathan Chewning noted that the department has been busy due to the ongoing dry conditions.
click to download audioYoung stated that while there is no burn ban currently in effect in the county, he strongly encourages everyone to use common sense and exercise extra caution.
click to download audioHe added that he anticipates a recommendation from the U.S. Forest Service will soon be issued, calling for a burn ban in the county.
