Afton council backs local grant applications including proposed meat-processing plant; reassigns block grant for water-line work

Mr. and Mrs. Grant Williams told the council they are pursuing a Wyoming Business Council grant to buy a building and equipment for a proposed meat-processing plant and are working toward USDA certification. Town Administrator Hyun Kim said the town would provide the monies and the Williamses would repay the town; the repaid funds would be used for other economic development projects.

The council indicated support and asked Kim to assist with the grant application. Kim said a public hearing will be scheduled to gather input on the proposal.

Kim also said Rob Johnson asked for assistance applying for a Wyoming Business Council grant to remodel the exterior of a building Johnson recently purchased from the town; the council directed staff to assist.

Separately, the council approved a request from the town of Opal to reassign consensus block grant funds (motion by Councilman Jason C. Inskeep, seconded by Councilman Jerry Hansen). After an executive session, the council passed a contingent motion (Inskeep moved, Hoopes seconded) that, upon reassignment, the monies be used for a proposed water-line extension from Madison Street to Papworth Lane and to acquire property easements for that project.

Council members said they support these local economic development efforts while noting that final grant awards and USDA certification are pending.