A local construction company is looking for some help from the city when it comes to expanding a water main. Ready Quip needs to have fire protection at their site on Riverside. They are looking to tap into the municipal water supply, but in order for that to happen they need the line extended. However, this may not be ideal for the city because as Mayor Steve Black says, it’s going to cost around $120,000.
Black says he doesn’t see the added value the water line will give the city in terms of future developments. There are a couple of lots there that may be developed down the road, but Black says he doesn’t know if the city will ever be able to recover the dollars to make it happen.
Black also notes he struggles with using tax payer dollars to pay for the extension, as rising taxes is the subject of many discussions throughout the city. He says this is an area where he is supporting the rest of the taxpayers, who would be paying to get a water line to one or two properties. Those lots have site plans that dictate they should supply themselves with fire services within a certain time frame.
However, Black does point out the cost would be shared between the city and the company if council approves the expense. Ready Quip would take on the cost of design, construction, and inspections. But, the city would foot the bill to extend the line.
Black says they always want to work with developers, including Ready Quip. He says the company is doing great work, with some great expansions, and are supplying local jobs. But, he says right now the format that was proposed to council sees too much cost put on their end.
City staff is now going to look at other options, like a fire pond, and come back to council with some numbers.