South River property owner will have to pay for water line extension

By Olivia Bradbury/Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A request for an extension of the water line on Old Cart Road had some South River councillors worrying about the precedent it would set if the Town agreed to cover the cost of a private land development.

The request was on the agenda of council’s February 5 meeting. The applicant plans to develop 300 feet of land on Old Cart Road into two building lots, but the water and sewer lines do not reach that area.

Extending the water and sewer lines to the Old Cart Road property would be costly for the individual who submitted the request.

“With the water sources up there, you’re better off digging a well,” said Councillor David Petten, noting the water in that area is both of good quality and in good supply. He expressed confusion as to why someone with that source at their disposal would want to hook their property up to the municipal water line.

Petten also worried that if council approved the extension it would be perceived as unfair by other residents.

“If we go ahead and extend water and sewer down there, we’re going to have other residents in town going for torches and axes,” he said.

“Don’t forget pitchforks,” quipped Councillor Steven Rowe.

Town clerk Marjorie Dawson explained that, before any extension can be made, the individual will need to apply to subdivide the land, and then apply for each building lot. Dawson said she believes the property owner is looking to sell one of the lots, which may be why he wants to connect the land to municipal lines. She added the individual may be willing to take on the engineering and extension of the lines at his own cost, meaning it would not cost the Town anything, and asked if council would be open to approving the extension under those circumstances.

“If it’s done to standards, absolutely,” said Petten. “We’re getting 300 feet of water for free.”