Fletcher Town Council approves resolution to seek grant for sewer extension

Fletcher Town Council voted to approve Resolution R-25-08, authorizing town staff to submit a grant application to extend central sewer service to three streets and seek state funds to cover construction and connection costs.

Land of Sky staff and town presenters told the council the program cited in the application includes roughly $22 million in total, with about $11 million earmarked to replace failing systems and another $11 million available to connect properties to a central sewer. Jacob of Land of Sky said the awards are structured as a principal-forgiveness loan and that "it's 100% forgiveness," meaning the town would not be responsible for repaying principal if awarded.

Council members and staff said the grant would cover most project costs, including tap fees and the homeowner-side connection work that often creates a substantial out-of-pocket expense for residents. Presenters described the proposed work as largely turnkey for homeowners: the award would pay connection fees, engineering costs, road repatching and typical legal/permitting expenses.

Project routing discussion focused on linking to the existing connection in South Chase. Staff said the sewer line will have to cross one or two private properties to reach the connection point and that the town would likely need to purchase easements from property owners; easement terms typically limit planting or digging above the line. Presenters noted they would try to run the pipe in the roadway where possible to reduce yard disturbance.

An engineering estimate delivered that day from McGill put the project construction and associated costs at about $1.1 million for this scope, which staff said includes design, permitting, construction administration and overlay work. Staff also reported the application deadline is Nov. 3 and that a state review board is scheduled to consider applications on Dec. 10.

The council moved and seconded approval of Resolution R-25-08. After a voice vote the chair announced, "The motion carries and the resolution is approved." Council members thanked Land of Sky for their work; a participant then spoke about a property boundary in the project area.

If awarded, the grant would reduce or eliminate the upfront cost to homeowners for tap fees and connections, but presenters said some residents who responded to the project's survey remain concerned about disruption during construction. The town will pursue the application and await the state review expected in December.