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Public works seeks council consensus to pursue developer requests to extend Fortville water service west
Summary
Public works staff told the council that developers have approached the town about extending Fortville water into Hancock County territory to serve new development; staff said engineers recommended proceeding and asked council for consensus to negotiate terms under the typical developer‑funded model with possible credits for upsizing.
Public works staff reported to the Fortville Town Council on Jan. 20 that developers have expressed interest in extending municipal water service west into Hancock County where McCordsville currently holds sewer territory.
The staff presentation described the common approach: developers pay to extend mains and the town may request upsizing (larger pipe or lift station) to accommodate future growth; when developers upsize at the town’s request they may receive credits on connection fees for their higher initial cost. Staff said engineers view extending water service as beneficial for the town’s long‑term system expansion, and asked the council for consensus to continue negotiations and work with developers and McCordsville on technical details.
Council members asked about cost allocation and whether the town would share costs; staff said typical practice is for developers to cover extension costs unless the town requests upsizing for broader coverage, in which case credits are used. Staff noted possible future needs such as additional wells or treatment capacity as development proceeds. Council members expressed general support for pursuing the opportunity and asked staff to continue discussions and report back with proposed terms.
No binding vote was taken; staff will continue negotiations and return with proposed agreements if terms are needed for council approval.
