JACKSON BONDS LOOK TO FUTURE EXPANSION

Residential and business growth in Jackson in recent years has created a need for infrastructure improvements, and city officials believe new sewer and water lines are among the most urgent to meet current and future demands.

Jackson voters will be asked Aug. 5 to approve a $10.54 million bond issue to finance improvements to sewer and water facilities. Sanitary sewer system improvements would be the most costly -- about $7.375 million -- and water system improvements would cost another $3.165 million.

Under the plan, the city would be able to borrow the money as needed to carry out the improvements through several phases of construction over a six-year period. Water and sewer users' rates would be increased through the year 2000 to help retire the bonds over a 20-year period.

City officials say the sewer lines need upgrading. Some date to the 1920s.

New gravity lines would enable the removal of 18 costly sewage pump stations because the lines would carry sewage toward the city's wastewater treatment plant.

Water volume, water pressure, water flow and firefighting capabilities would increase with the water line improvements. Line-looping would allow one water line to hook into another line. At least one new well would be drilled to increase the water supply and larger water mains would be installed to increase the water volume and pressure. More filter capacity at the water plant would increase output.

With improved water service, the Missouri Insurance Board could adjust the city's fire classifications, paving the way for possible reductions in homeowners' insurance premiums.

The city of Jackson in recent years has added significantly to its corporate limits by annexations eastward to Interstate 55. It is in need of the improvements to meet demands there as well as upgrading lines in older parts of town.

A vote in favor of the Aug. 5 bond issue would assure that the city keeps pace with its new growth.