 We're not capable or interested in taking care of a line that
doesn't belong to us, attorney for the college Rick Hobler told
committee members on Tuesday. There was a time when most of the 22
homes served by that line were owned by employees of the college and
the college viewed its maintenance as a courtesy to the staff, he
said.
Today, however, few of the homes belong to college employees. No
one really knows what the original agreements between the college
and homeowners were concerning the sewer line. Many of those homes
have been sold over and again, Hobler said.
An additional observation was made that the homeowners have been
paying a city sewer bill for years. And, the city maintains the
other main sewer lines in town.
Just as in other areas of the city, property owners would be
responsible for the lateral line that runs from their home to the
main line.
"We're willing to do the legwork," Hobler said. The college
proposed the following measures:
-
They would obtain
property easements to the main line.
-
They agree to make
sure the main line is in good condition and clear. This would be
accomplished by a city crew televising the line. Sewer manager
Dave Kitzmiller has agreed to supervise the scoping.
-
An assessment would
be made to make sure there are enough manholes. One is needed
every 75 feet. Hobler said he would lead negotiation with
property owners to share in any added costs of additional
manholes, if needed. Each costs $2,500. Up to four more could be
needed.
Hobler also agreed to
work out an understanding with property owners that any obstructions
needing to be removed for future maintenance would be done at no
expense to the city.
[to top of second column]
 |
The question was raised whether the city assuming ownership of this
line might obligate the city by proximity to connect property owners
south of the campus to the city sewer service.
Homes in the adjacent area are on wells.
Mark Mathon said he did not think that it would, as it is not
physically possible for the sewer line to function from there. It
would take adding a lift station to connect them.
The city can only scope property that belongs to them, because of
liability for property damage.
In order to start the process of evaluation, the committee agreed
that if the college acquires waivers from property owners, then they
will scope the main line.
Hobler and the committee agreed that when more information from
the above processes is available, discussion of the matter would
continue.
[By JAN YOUNGQUIST]
 |
