Jackson officials lobby for passage of water-system bond issue

As the Aug. 4 election approaches, city officials are working to drum up support for a proposed $11.5 million water-system bond issue, and some area businesses are voicing their approval.

The project would replace water pipes, some of which were installed more than 80 years ago, are poorly fitted to the city's needs and are prone to damage.

City administrator Jim Roach, in a presentation before the board of aldermen, said why the bond issue is needed now.

Safety is a concern for some parts of town. Not all fire hydrants provide the same volume of water, and some have been rendered inadequate by Jackson's growth in recent years. Since 1997, Jackson has issued more than 900 construction permits for new single-family homes. The water-system improvements are designed to ensure these newer residents' water needs are met.

A new 300,000-gallon water tower on Ridge Road, a new well and an extensive overhaul to pipes are included in the water-system upgrade.

Jackson resident Steve Pogue said he doesn't experience problems with water flow, but he and his family are familiar with problems some residents face.

He said although he wasn't aware the measure is coming up on next month's ballot, he would support upgrades to the water system.

Potential voters such as Pogue are the reason behind city officials' push to inform people about the benefits of the upgrade.

Roach said upgrading the system also would help attract businesses, and some members of the business community agree.

A statement by the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce to Mayor Dwain Hahs and the Jackson Board of Aldermen at their most recent meeting expressed the chamber's support of the project.

"We believe that these upgrades are urgently needed to address fire safety concerns and to meet projected maximum daily water usage as the city continues its growth trajectory," the statement said. "We encourage Jackson voters to educate themselves on this critical issue and to vote yes on August 4."

Chamber members identified access to water as "critically important to future development and sustainability throughout Jackson."

tgraef@semissourian.com

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