Westward Expansion Progresses in La Grange

The La Grange City Council took another step towards a western expansion along the SH 71 corridor at the meeting Monday, Nov. 10.

Two weeks ago the Council gave a preliminary nod to the project, which would authorize the La Grange Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to explore a possible sewer line extension along the south side of SH 71 west of town to Hayworth Roofing.

Properties along the highway can get electrical service from Fayette Electric Cooperative (FEC) and water from Fayette Water Supply Corporation (FWSC). But there is no public sewer service available in that area. If the project moves forward, it could pave the way for development and annexation by the City.

The City Council needed to approve two readings of a resolution for the project to proceed. They approved the first reading two weeks ago. During the second reading on Monday, Councilman Ken Taylor asked if all the affected property owners agree to annexation. City Manager Jack Thompson confirmed they do wish to become part of the City. The resolution included language about extending utility services “including water and sewer utilities.” Taylor asked if a water line extension would be included in the project. Thompson said that only sewer services are under consideration at this time. Thompson said the language about water was included in the resolution in case the City wants to offer water service to those properties in the future. Since the properties in question are already served by FWSC, the City would have to come to an agreement with FWSC to serve those areas. But that is not under consideration at this time. Lastly, Taylor got confirmation that the Council will vote for final approval on the project once costs are determined. After that, the Council voted unanimously to approve the second reading.

Also at Monday’s meeting, the Council voted to cancel their Dec. 22 meeting due to the Christmas holidays. It passed unanimously.

In other business, La Grange resident Theresa Von Rosenberg spoke during the citizen participation period. Von Rosenberg asked for an update on stormwater drainage improvements. Thompson said BEFCO Engineering will present an update on proposed drainage improvements at the Dec. 8 Council meeting.