Liberty Town Council (LTC) discussed a proposed change to the planned utility expansion project southeast of Liberty at its May 16 meeting.

Union County commissioner Howard Curry had presented the opportunity to perform system upgrades to the town's sewer infrastructure above the planned expansion to LTC's May 2 meeting. While the county intends to cover the $1.3 million utility expansion project with its American Recovery Plan Act funds, engineers on the project suggested upgrades to the town's existing infrastructure in the area could be included in the project at Liberty's expense. 

The proposed upgrades to the forced main and lift station servicing Wilmar would add approximately $450,000 to the bill, which would be picked up by the town. LTC president Matt Barnhizer explained discussions with the engineer left him feeling running utilities through Wilmar and upgrading those existing systems would allow for the replacement of dated equipment. Liberty utility superintendent Matt Reuss agreed it would be a better solution, but he didn't realize the additional cost would be that high. Reuss has a list of other upgrades he would like to implement in the future, which include UV sanitation equipment and a lift station upgrade at Panorama. While  Wilmar's lift station is only a few years newer, it has been rebuilt twice.

Barnhizer asked Liberty clerk-treasurer Melissa Shepler what funds could be used toward such a project. Shepler replied generally only sewer funds can be used for sewer projects and water funds for water projects. Barnhizer asked about potentially using general funds, Shepler replied she will check; potentially economic development income tax (EDIT) funds could be used.

Wilmar resident Mark Stelle presented council with a signature-filled petition against the potential of accessing a new housing development through Wilmar's existing streets. He noted the streets are already narrow and he has seen an increase in foot traffic over the past few years and feels an increase in vehicle traffic would be a detriment to the Wilmar community.

Barnhizer thanked Stelle for his work and bringing the concerns of the community to their attention and reported they are currently focused on how to run the utility lines; if the project does move forward, vehicle access would be worked out with a property developer. Barnhizer welcomed Stelle's and the community's input moving forward.

Union County Foundation Executive Director Danka Klein inquired about the timeline for the development, noting the potential for infrastructure funding through a new state program that is currently in the works and the need for more housing in the community. Shepler replied the timeline for the utility expansion is dictated by the ARPA regulations, which state the funds must be spent by the end of 2026, although those restrictions have changed and may continue to change. Reuss warned the various grant programs have spurred infrastructure projects in municipalities across the country, making it difficult to acquire materials and parts, citing a one-year wait to get ductile iron water mains. Shepler added the same demand has impacted engineering firms, which are all booked with projects. 

Reuss asked if there have been any developers interested in working on the property. LTC member Ross Keasling replied Union County commissioner Tim Williams has been in touch with a developer who expressed interest in moving forward once utilities are in place. Barnhizer referenced a certain 1989 sports fantasy drama, “if you build it, they will come,” noting developers have come to town every few years looking at potential projects. 

“We've got to take a step, and it might be a little bit of a risk, but if we get utilities out there, I think it's going to be a lot more appealing to developers,” said Barnhizer.

Barnhizer asked Reuss to review the latest cost breakdown from the engineers and asked Shepler to review the town's funding options. 

Also discussed:

-Liberty Police Chief Andrew Jordan reported he had scheduled an upcoming agility test for 16 department applicants.

-Council approved a street closure for the Lion's Club to hold its annual Fathers' Day Car Show on June 19 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

-Council reviewed a draft ordinance to create a four-way stop at the intersection of Sycamore and Fairground streets after a resident brought concerns over increases in playing children and fast traffic. Reuss felt the four-way stop will improve safety and not adversely impact traffic flow through the area. Jordan agreed.