Geisgrove Council approves water and sewer extension for McKinley Avenue annexation

In a recent City Council meeting held on July 14, 2025, the Cottage Grove Council discussed a significant infrastructure project aimed at extending water and sewer services to two properties on McKinley Avenue. The owners of these properties are seeking to annex into the city, prompting the need for this essential service expansion.

City staff recommended that the council authorize the city manager to sign a contract to award the bid for the infrastructure work. This decision is crucial as it will facilitate the connection of these properties to the city’s existing utilities, enhancing service availability in the area.

Councilor Maraday raised an important question regarding the potential for future connections along the proposed extension. The response indicated that while additional landowners on McKinley Street could connect in the future, no extra connections would be made unless requested by those individuals. However, the infrastructure being installed will allow for future taps without complications.

The discussion also touched on the financial aspects of the project. It was clarified that the infrastructure costs would be covered by city funds, while the property owners would be responsible for reimbursing the city based on their usage capacity. This arrangement ensures that the city can expand its services while also managing costs effectively.

Overall, this meeting highlighted the city’s commitment to improving utility services and accommodating new residents, which is vital for the community's growth and development. As Cottage Grove continues to expand, these infrastructure projects will play a key role in ensuring that all residents have access to essential services.