6/22/1993 - Laserfiche WebLink

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JUN 22 1993 BOOK 89 PA,UE 9-14 -7 Jim Wilson, local attorney, 1601 20th Street, came before the Board representing Bob Havlin who is a resident of Cherry Lane. Mr. Wilson also represented the residents of Cherry Lane who signed the petition. He argued that this project is a result of County staff following the Comp Plan without considering the wishes of the residents. He argued that while it may be necessary at some future time to build water lines to this area, it is premature right now. The residents are opposed to the water expansion because they cannot afford it and do not need it because their parcels are bigger than most platted subdivisions. There is no health hazard necessitating the water line. Mr. Wilson reported that staff argued that the water line is mandated by the State, but there is nothing in the Comprehensive Plan that states that a water line must be placed down Cherry Lane at this time. The County is required to provide water to 30 percent of the residential units -within the urban service area having undersized lots. Cherry Lane is not in that category. Mr. Wilson pointed out that staff is following policy which was created by staff, and the residents feel it is bad policy. He urged the Board to look at the policy and if it is bad, change it. He noted that 90 percent of the 47 residences in the Cherry Lane area are opposed to this project. since it is not required by the Comp Plan, Cherry Lane should be excluded from this project. County Attorney Charles Vitunac reminded the Board that the Comp Plan requires that the whole urban service area shall be served with water in due time. Since Cherry Lane is within the urban service area and since it is connected physically with areas that are substandard sized lots, it was convenient to include it in this project. Commissioner Eggert emphasized that the decisions regarding water service expansion were made by the Board, not staff. There were a number of public hearings and advertisements, and she understands why people do not see the urgency, but the opportunity was available for people to become informed. Mr. Wilson agreed that the Cherry Lane area lies between Lateral A and Kings Highway and is within the urban service area, but he pointed out that it is not necessary to pass through Cherry Lane to serve the other subdivisions with smaller lots. There are other areas that are in more critical stages and they should be served first. Water service for Cherry Lane can be addressed at some future time. 50