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Soil & Water presents $975,540 estimate for Watson Ford No. 25; explains assessment method
Summary
Soil & Water Deputy Administrator Brett Bacon summarized the project scope, timeline, and an estimated $975,540 in construction costs and explained assessment calculations, repayment options and maintenance assessments for affected parcels.
Brett Bacon, deputy administrator for the Soil and Water Conservation District, presented the final hearing report for the Watson Ford Number 25 drainage improvement petition and walked the board through the project scope, timeline and cost estimates. Bacon said the watershed is roughly 530 acres (45% agricultural, 34% rural residential, 20% woods/wetlands, 1% right of way) and the project includes a main, a submain and five laterals with work ranging from subsurface tile replacement to open channel construction.
Bacon gave per‑section construction estimates and a total estimate of $975,540.60 if all parts were approved. He explained how assessments are calculated (acres × land‑use factor × percent used), and that landowners may pay in full within 30 days or elect a special assessment placed on property tax with amortization options; his example showed an average parcel assessment of about $9,722 and sample 8‑ and 15‑year repayment figures. Bacon also described the county’s drainage maintenance program and typical annual maintenance collections (2.5–5%).
The engineer noted that the first hearing’s earlier estimate (~$394,684) predated COVID‑era construction price increases and that amendments filed later expanded the scope, contributing to the higher current estimate. Bacon recommended the project is technically feasible and said parcel‑level testimony about benefits should be weighed by the board when deciding whether to confirm assessments and proceed.
