Goshen council approves purchase step to expand Kircher Well Field

Goshen City Council on Oct. 6 unanimously approved Resolution 2025-16 to pursue acquisition of real estate at 1711 Eisenhower Drive North as part of a planned expansion of the Kircher Well Field.

City staff said the parcel would allow the city to place additional wells needed to increase drinking-water capacity. "We need a 100-foot radius around each well to meet item setback requirements," said Dustin, a city staff member who presented the item. He said the parcel east of Greencroft's maintenance facility "would allow for up to 3 wells" and that the Kircher Well Field currently contains three wells.

The council voted without public comment after the presentation. Council President Weddell moved for passage of the resolution; the motion passed unanimously.

Why it matters: Council materials and the staff presentation said the city conducted a study of its well fields and identified both an expansion near the airport and a need for additional capacity at Kircher. Acquiring the parcel is a preparatory step so the city can place new production wells to serve future demand and regulatory setbacks.

Price and next steps: Dustin told the council the purchase price is not yet finalized because the city is early in the appraisal process and the property owner has made an asking price. He said the city will rely on appraisals: "It's the average of two appraisals," he said. Council members asked whether the city could offer more than the appraisal average if negotiations stall; staff indicated the appraisal process sets the purchase guidance. The resolution authorizes the acquisition process; final terms were not specified at the meeting.

Background: The item arose from the city's well-field study and infrastructure planning presented to council in prior work sessions. The council did not set a closing timetable at the meeting.

The council moved next items on the agenda after the vote.