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Clark Township resident urges county support for $45 million natural‑gas extension to Hessel and Cedarville
Summary
Resident Paul Hitchens asked the Mackinac County Board on Jan. 22 to support financing to extend natural gas to Hessel and Cedarville, estimating initial costs near $45 million and proposing bond financing contingent on public support.
Paul Hitchens, a Clark Township resident, asked the Mackinac County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 22 to consider supporting and helping finance an effort to extend natural gas service to the Hessel and Cedarville areas.
Hitchens told commissioners he believes high home‑heating costs have driven residents away and that natural gas would be a more affordable option for many households. He estimated an initial cost of approximately $45 million to start the infrastructure work and said he is exploring financing such as bond initiatives but would need public support before moving forward.
Commissioners did not take immediate action on the request; the item was heard during New Business and Hitchens sought the board’s help in developing ideas and possible financing approaches.
The proposal would require substantial outside planning, cost estimates and public engagement; no funding commitments were recorded in the meeting minutes.
