Cedar Falls Residents Divided Over Sewer Extension Plan

In Cedar Falls, a public hearing on Monday regarding the extension of a sanitary sewer saw residents divided over the issue. The proposal involves acquiring private property for the project and was put forth before the City Council. After extensive deliberation and an unsuccessful attempt to delay, it passed. 
 
The proposed project includes extending the sanitary sewer line on South Main Street's west side from Bergstrom Boulevard down to Greenhill Road. This would require securing both permanent and temporary easements on nine different properties. 
 
While those who own these properties will receive compensation for granting these easements, they will also bear responsibility for the construction costs associated with them. 
 
Walt and Jennifer Rogers are two property owners who support this initiative wholeheartedly. They own two parcels in areas that would be impacted by this plan. Unfortunately, their new septic systems failed just some years after installation, leading Walt Rogers to describe their situation as being akin to living in a "sewer swamp." 
 
He said, "Obviously, this project affects several people along South Main Street, but for us, it's really a health issue." He stressed that having functioning sanitation is crucially important. 
 
Barb Shepard echoed his sentiments, saying she has always wanted sewer services provided there during her lifetime residing on South Main Street, but attempts have always fallen through till now. 
 
Chase Schrage, Director of Public Works, noted prior attempts at extending sewage service had indeed been made, but all eventually fell through at roughly similar stages of progress as currently witnessed. 
  
However, not everyone supports or looks forward to its implementation, citing various concerns such as cost implications, especially among retired homeowners like Sandy Lawry, who worry about affordability despite receiving compensation for easement grants. She further expressed fears about possible damage or loss of trees, which were part of why she bought her particular property. 
 
Natalie Morfitt voiced dissatisfaction with how city authorities handled matters related to informing affected homeowners about cost implications, giving off the impression they were merely imposing without much room for negotiation or alternatives. 
 
Councilman Dustin Ganfield expressed similar concerns about the burden of costs on homeowners and suggested possible solutions, such as only connecting those willing to be part of it or splitting the project into smaller parts. Councilman Chris Latta also hinted at being intrigued by this idea, citing feedback from his constituents. 
 
Despite these objections and suggestions, the motion to delay was rejected, and a unanimous vote saw approval granted for proceeding with the project, including the acquisition of easements. 
 
In conclusion, while some residents are in favor due to health reasons and others are against due to cost implications and potential damage to their property aesthetics, city authorities have decided unanimously that extending sanitary sewer services along South Main Street is a necessary step towards improving public sanitation levels within Cedar Falls.