Council Addresses Waterline Connection Issue for Higgs Property After Eight Years

The Eureka City Council convened on June 23, 2025, to address several key issues, with a significant focus on a long-standing waterline connection matter affecting local residents.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the Higgs property, where it was revealed that the owners had been paying utility fees for approximately eight to nine years despite their waterline not being connected. Council members expressed concern over the situation, noting that the waterline had likely been abandoned during previous construction projects, specifically prior to the 2017 project.

Greg, a city official, was tasked with investigating the situation further. It was determined that a connection would need to be established from a nearby road to the Higgs property. The council debated the urgency of the connection, with one member suggesting that the residents were worried it might be overlooked.

The council also discussed potential solutions, including the possibility of hiring external help or having city staff, Joe and Troy, manage the connection work. There was a consensus that, given the residents' long history of payments, they should not incur additional fees for the connection. A memorandum of understanding was proposed to formalize the agreement that the residents would not have to pay impact fees when they eventually seek a building permit.

The meeting highlighted the importance of addressing historical oversights in city infrastructure and ensuring that residents receive the services they have been financially supporting. The council plans to follow up on the matter to ensure the connection is made in a timely manner, reflecting their commitment to resolving the issue for the Higgs family.