Dam project to move forward

The Sally Buffalo Dam project was a topic of discussion at last week’s Cadiz Council meeting. A.J. Smith, a representative from Verdantas—the engineering firm handling the work—addressed council. Village Administrator Brandon Ludwig, just prior to introducing Smith, said they’ve had some issues with federal funding “but I think we’ve got some answers and some direction now.”

Smith said the project is beginning to move forward, though slowly, and noted the grant applied for was just over $700,000. He said the project was delayed last year at the state level after it was nearly ready to proceed near the end of 2024. The federal level also paused it, with the grants coming through FEMA.

“It now sounds like that money is ready to be released again,” Smith told council.

He also said a two-year extension for the grant had been filed and expressed optimism that the money would be released this fall, allowing the village to receive a contract for the grant.

“That would likely put us into next year for the construction,” Smith said. “Nothing’s been set in stone yet, but it sounds like it’s starting to move forward again. And hopefully by this fall we’ll have the paperwork for the grant.”

Smith said the grant would cover 65 percent of the project, with a required 35 percent match. When asked, he confirmed the village was looking at construction beginning in late summer or fall of 2026. He added that due to the delays, inflation and bid amounts could rise—a point that drew no reaction from council.

Also appearing for the second time in recent weeks was Jess Kidd of McAlpine Meadery in Beach City. She previously attended the May Cadiz meeting to propose a fundraiser for the Harrison County Dog Warden and the humane society. The event was originally planned for July 5 at Sally Buffalo Park, but that has now changed.

Kidd said she felt it would be too hot for the animals to be outside, and while there would be no fireworks at the event, she anticipated some in the area, which could frighten pets.“So, we are thinking of a day closer to either the end of August or early September,” Kidd explained. “That way it would be a little better for all parties involved because it’s going to be incredibly hot to have animals outside.”

Kidd said one way they could help would be to cover adoption fees. She referenced the recent Jewett house raid, in which dozens of animals were seized by authorities. She said the event will still be vendor-driven and has launched a GoFundMe account “to start donations early.” She named $5,000 as the fundraising goal, calling it a small but achievable amount.