Barnes and Chatham County Infrastructure - Chatlist Post 4-14-08

Recently there has been renewed discussion regarding sewer and wastewater ... in general, infrastructure … in particular, a recently approved State sewer allocation for Chatham. Some view this with trepidation, fearing that it would only lead to more residential growth … up to 100,000 homes, I recently heard. Some have a concern about not having a plan in place before requesting a sewer allocation, which again could lead to rampant misuse of this allocation.

Water and sewer infrastructure is essential for true economic development. This is highlighted in the adopted strategic plan, our land conservation and development plan, and the most recent economic development strategic plan proposal, http://www.chathamedc.org/pdfs/recommendations_april08.pdf .

As with our County’s water allocation, we also needed the State’s approval for a sewer discharge allocation. Without it, we would have no hope for infrastructure, for economic development, or for addressing the sewer challenges of our existing municipalities; Pittsboro, Siler City, and Goldston.

About a year ago our commissioners went to DEHNR to seek an allocation. They were told no. Cary & Raleigh had taken the last of it (even though they didn't necessarily have a plan for how it was to be used). Chatham had no options, no leverage, and no idea on what to do next. But Patrick Barnes kept his eye on the ball. Nearly a year later, he discovered a quasi-clandestine wastewater plan emerging in western Wake County (they weren't telling us or involving us). Patrick inserted himself into this discussion (he wasn't very welcomed there). He and our then County attorney found a legal loophole that compelled western Wake County and Cary to start paying attention to Chatham County.

The result of this leverage is a letter from DENHR advising Chatham of having an allocation. One year ago, Chatham County was told no. Because of Patrick Barnes we now have possibilities.

With the allocation, planning can continue - focused on the ideals of the adopted strategic plan, the land conservation and development plan, and the emerging economic development strategic plan, with attention to environmental protection, targeting growth areas, and building the much needed infrastructure to succeed. Without it … well ...

Vote May 6th
Re-elect Patrick Barnes, www.Barnes4Chatham.blogspot.com
Re-elect Mike Cross, www.Cross4Chatham.blogspot.com/
Chatham County Commissioner