Blowing Rock council agrees to share $56,183 for Green Park sewer line replacement, requires recorded easement

The Blowing Rock Town Council on March 10 voted to participate in replacing part of an aging 8‑inch clay sewer line adjacent to the Green Parkin property, contingent on a recorded easement and with the town share to be funded in next year’s budget.

Planning Director Kevin Rothrock presented a request from property owner John Winkler for the town to pay part of a sewer replacement where the existing clay pipe has capacity and grease issues and will be partially abandoned and replaced as part of the Green Parkin construction. Rothrock said the town’s public‑works staff recommends participating at a cost of $56,183.

Rothrock summarized the proposal: the developer would install a new section of 8‑inch ductile‑iron sewer and a 4‑foot‑diameter manhole at a mid‑point, with the developer paying for some portions and the town covering the recommended share. "What he's proposing is to have the town participate in replacing half of this line," Rothrock said.

Council members asked practical questions about responsibility if the clay line fails, whether the town would need to put the work out for bid, and the number of properties served; staff estimated about 60 houses are connected to that line. The council discussed requiring a recorded easement for maintenance access; one council member’s motion to approve the town’s participation included the easement requirement.

The motion was seconded and approved. Council members and staff clarified the appropriation would be placed in the next fiscal year’s budget (the 2027 budget cycle) rather than charged immediately. The contractor estimate and details were provided to council in the staff packet and will inform next year’s budget process.