Jackson voters approve water-system bond issue

Jackson's water system will get an upgrade next year, thanks to the easy passage of an $11.5 million water-bond issue in Tuesday's election.

It's the first water improvement bond issue to pass since 1997 and will include the construction of a new well, new water tower, improved pump equipment and upgraded piping around the city.

None of the reporting precincts was less than 70 percent in favor of the issue.

"I thank our voting constituents for taking time to learn about these water system needs and supporting the city in addressing those needs," Mayor Dwain Hahs said in a prepared statement following the announcement of the results. "I also thank our many city employees and the Board of Aldermen who all spent time helping to educate our residents, addressing questions and volunteering their time."

The implementation of improvements is projected to take place over the course of the next decade. But city administrator Jim Roach said now the bond issue has passed, the work can begin in earnest.

"There's a lot of financing work to do," he said. "There's construction work to do, but we're probably looking at early 2016 getting started."

Hahs said the measure will make growth possible and life easier.

"Jackson has a very bright, exciting future ahead, and this bond issue allows us to take an important step in that direction. Again, thanks go to everyone who supported this issue," he said.

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