Council gives direction to waive Allen House water fees until lease anniversary

City council gave direction to staff to waive water charges at the Allen House until the lease anniversary reporting date and to reconsider the request when the lessee reports to council.

Ryan Haverlaw, city manager, summarized that the Copperas Cove Historical Society executed a lease for the Allen House on Feb. 4 and has requested that the city either waive or sponsor water utility costs for the property while the society prepares the site and pursues grants and restoration work. The society representatives in the chamber said they are clearing the property, planning phased restoration work, and intend to host outdoor fundraising events and 'event rentals once the grounds are improved.

Council discussed whether a temporary waiver or a term tied to the lease anniversary would be appropriate. One councilmember initially suggested waiving water fees for one year; the council later agreed to a narrower direction proposed by staff: waive the water fees until the Allen House lease anniversary date (Feb. 5) and have the historical society present its restoration plan and progress at that time for council review and a follow-up decision. Council and staff noted that an amendment to the lease would be required if council ultimately approves a longer-term waiver.

Staff also told council that any water-only waiver would require amendment to the lease and that the society has a restoration plan pending (staff expects the plan by the end of the week). The historical society representatives said they currently have no rental income from the property and need limited water service to prepare the grounds for fundraising events.

No formal ordinance or resolution was adopted; council provided direction to staff and set the lease anniversary as the next decision point.