Developer seeks deferral of water-line installation for Karell Addition; council hears concerns

Larry Miller, representing developer James Karell and Karell Remodeling Service and Properties, asked the council May 19 to approve the Karell Addition subdivision while deferring the requirement to install a water line along Ramblin Road. Miller said the proposed storage units would not need water service and noted water lines are available on 6th Street and Highway 385; he estimated the cost to install the water line at "between $150,000 and $200,000." Miller also requested permission to connect Lot 1 to an existing six-inch water line on 6th Street if needed; he said Karell would pay hookup fees and maintain the line from the curb stop.

City staff pushed back on exceptions to infrastructure requirements. Community Development Director Kusek said he does not recommend waiving required public-works elements and emphasized planning for long-term development. Public Works Director Grant recommended extending the line to create a loop connection with 3rd Street to avoid dead-end flushing issues and "provide improved water storage capacity and increased fire suppression volume." Fire Chief Shoemaker reported the existing hydrant at 6th Street and Ramblin Road is currently adequate but said a looped distribution system would be beneficial. The council discussed these positions but no formal vote or final decision to defer installation was recorded in the minutes.