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Queenstown approves $1,828,000 financing authorization for water system upgrades
Summary
The Town Commissioners adopted Ordinance 25-01 on March 26, 2025, authorizing up to $1,828,000 in general-obligation financing to fund refurbishment of the Wall Street elevated tank, a new 100,000-gallon ground storage tank, a new four-inch well and treatment facility, and replacement and extension of water mains; the vote was 3-0.
President Al Hardee said the Town Commissioners of Queenstown adopted Ordinance 25-01 on March 26, 2025, authorizing the issuance of a general obligation installment bond and a general obligation note, each not to exceed $1,828,000, to finance and refinance a package of water system improvements.
The ordinance directs net proceeds to refurbish the existing 50,000-gallon elevated tank on Wall Street, install a new 100,000-gallon ground storage tank, drill a new four-inch well into the Mattawan aquifer, build a new water-treatment facility, replace undersized or defective water mains, extend mains to new service areas, and cover related property, design, engineering and legal costs. The ordinance cites the town charter and state enabling statutes identified in the meeting record.
Commissioner Bryon Callahan moved to adopt the ordinance; Commissioner Tom Willis seconded and the motion carried 3-0. Town Attorney Lyndsey Ryan and staff noted next steps include engaging bond counsel and considering interim financing as the Town proceeds toward sale of the bonds and note.
Town Engineer Bob Rauch told the commissioners the town's water/sewer rate study is more complex than anticipated and is not yet ready; staff expect a report at a future meeting. Rauch and Brian Fitzgerald of Rauch, Inc., also updated the commission on water-quality and pressure concerns in Queenstown Harbor, saying recent sampling has shown results within EPA drinking-water limits but recommending targeted chlorine testing, flushing of end hydrants, and pressure checks at customer fixtures; additional testing was scheduled for the following week.
Why it matters: the financing authorization gives the town the ability to fund major upgrades to aging water infrastructure that officials say are needed to meet standards and extend service. The ordinance authorizes the use of the town's full faith, credit and taxing power to back the debt if necessary.
Votes at a glance: - Ordinance 25-01 (authorize bonds/notes for water system improvements): adopted, motion by Commissioner Bryon Callahan, seconded by Commissioner Tom Willis, vote 3 aye - 0 nay. - Minutes (March 12, 2025): approved, motion by Commissioner Tom Willis, seconded by Commissioner Bryon Callahan, vote 3-0. - Adjournment: approved, motion by Commissioner Tom Willis, seconded by Commissioner Bryon Callahan, vote 3-0.
Next steps: staff and town counsel will proceed with drafting documents and working with bond counsel; the commissioners will consider interim financing options and await the completed rate-study report before finalizing any rate changes.
