Council ratifies three utilities property actions, including a $229,000 transmission easement sale

The council ratified three requests from noon utilities affecting city property and operations. Staff explained the items as a single package: (1) ratification of a 2.2-acre donation around a sewer lift station from the Crane family to improve access; (2) ratification of the purchase and dedication of a neighboring 14-acre parcel to improve watershed/reservoir access on the west side of the county; and (3) approval of an easement sale to Georgia Transmission Corporation for a 150-foot right-of-way across the compost-site property for a transmission line, with an agreed payment of roughly $229,000 based on an independent appraisal.

Council clarified the easement’s limitations: the city retains surface uses such as driveways and compost operations, but cannot construct fixed structures within the easement or plant trees that exceed height limits (staff cited a typical 15-foot clearance restriction). Staff said the proposed alignment largely parallels an existing transmission corridor, minimizing impacts on private landowners.

Outcome: Council approved the package and an amendment to include payment to water and light as noted; the motion carried unanimously. Staff will complete closing documents and ensure deed and easement language protect continued compost operations and maintenance access.