Council deadlocks on municipal boundary adjustment with Perry City

Willard City Council members discussed Ordinance 2026-01, a proposed municipal boundary adjustment with neighboring Perry City that would run the boundary to the center of the road for a portion of Perry Street and exclude the Barker property. Council members and staff described survey results, topography that complicates sewer installation, and prior attempts to negotiate interlocal agreements for water and sewer services.

Council member Rod said the ordinance would "amend the boundaries of Willard City with an agreement that's standing in front of us here," and described the boundary running "in the center of the street from Chad Bragger South line to the end of the street." Staff explained that Perry has existing water and sewer where Willard does not in that area and that using Perry infrastructure could avoid a pump station. The council reviewed plat maps and discussed how center-of-road language would affect addresses and future development.

Rod moved to adopt Ordinance 2026-01; the motion was seconded. During a roll-call vote the council recorded opposing and supporting votes from members, producing a tie. The tie vote was announced by the chair, and the motion did not carry. The council did not adopt the boundary-adjustment ordinance at this meeting and left further negotiation and technical review with staff as the next step.