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Commissioners approve preliminary MSBU rates; debate centers on ballot-counting rules for affected properties
Summary
The board approved multiple preliminary municipal service benefit unit rate resolutions, including a preliminary assessment for a new Southwest Powell Glen MSBU; commissioners debated whether nonreturned ballots can effectively impose assessments on nonresponding property owners and scheduled a public hearing Sept. 3.
The Columbia County Board of County Commissioners approved several preliminary rate resolutions for municipal service benefit units (MSBUs) and moved forward with mailings for public hearings, while a debate over ballot-counting rules surfaced during discussion of a new Southwest Powell Glen MSBU.
Staff (S1) introduced Resolution 2026R-22 proposing an initial local improvement assessment of $653 per dwelling unit and a $93 annual maintenance fee for the Southwest Powell Glen Municipal Service Unit. Commissioner (S4) objected to the practical effect of the ballot process, noting that 'if only a small number of affected property owners return ballots, the votes that are returned determine the outcome but everyone on the road is charged regardless.'
Lisa (S18), the staff member who conducts balloting and counts certified mail returns, said eight lots were affected and five property owners returned yes ballots. Commissioner (S6/Joel) and staff acknowledged the county's ordinance counts votes of affected property owners who returned ballots and that unanswered ballots are discarded; commissioners asked staff to re-examine prior practices and legal interpretation before final adoption. The board set a public hearing for Sept. 3 to finalize rates and hear affected property owners.
The board also approved preliminary resolutions that renew or maintain MSBU rates without change for Forest Cove (2026R-23), Pine Ridge Court (2026R-24), Spring Hollow Street Lighting (2026R-25), Carolyn Heights Street Lighting (2026R-26), Laurel Lakes Street Lighting (2026R-27) and Emerald Lakes Street Lighting (2026R-28).
Chair (S2) explained that approving a preliminary rate resolution enables staff to mail legally required notices and schedule the formal public hearing; staff said final adoption will occur after the hearing if the board elects to proceed.
What's next: The board approved the preliminary resolutions by voice vote and will hold required public hearings where affected property owners may comment before the board adopts any final assessments.
