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Commission endorses purchase of DOT parcel to expand aging pump station
Summary
The Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved an affirmative GS 8-24 report to acquire a 3,835-square-foot DOT parcel at 120 North Main Street for a new pump station, citing aging equipment and constrained access; DOT is asking $19,200 for the land.
The Middletown Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve an affirmative GS 8-24 report to acquire a 3,835-square-foot parcel of Department of Transportation land at 120 North Main Street so the Water & Sewer Department can build a replacement sanitary sewer pump station and provide off-street parking and maintenance access.
Brian Robillard, chief engineer for the Water & Sewer Department, told the commission the current pump station was built in 1976 and that "many of the components are old and failing," which makes routine maintenance time-consuming and more hazardous because the existing station sits on a very small "postage stamp" parcel with no on-site parking. "So it's a 3,835 square feet, it's a small piece of property, $19,200 is the price that DOT is asking," Robillard said.
Robillard said the department's plan is to build a new pump station on the acquired parcel while keeping the existing station operational during construction, and to use the new site for temporary pumps and equipment storage so crews would not need to stage vehicles and pumps on public streets.
Commissioner Nathaniel Spencer moved to approve the GS 8-24 report and item 8.1; the motion was seconded and the chair called for the voice vote. "All those in favor, signify by saying aye," the chair said; the motion passed unanimously. During discussion, Commissioner Giuliano asked whether the city would receive a warranty deed or a quitclaim deed; Robillard said he would consult with legal staff to confirm deed type prior to closing.
The endorsement by the commission clears the local planning review step under the statute cited in the application and allows the city to move toward closing on the purchase, subject to the deed type, legal review and any conditions noted in the acquisition process.
Next steps: staff will follow up with the Water & Sewer Department and the city's legal office to confirm the deed instrument and schedule a closing with DOT.
