Public weighs in on capital projects

Harold Cummings, of Winfield, was there to talk about water lines.

"Mostly, we're trying to get some water to the churches out there,'' he said, referring to First Mount Carmel and Sharon Baptist churches, during a capital improvement projects public hearing Thursday night.

Cummings was among about 25 people at the forum, which was the second of three on the issue of a proposed upcoming $40 million bond issue and projects that might be completed with the money.

At the hearing at Eubanks Blanchard Community Center, County Administrator Steve Szablewski first gave those present details of why such a bond issue is being sought in the county and then asked residents to provide their suggestions for needed projects in breakout groups.

"Some people will say 'Why now?''' Szablewski said. "We found there's a lot of projects we couldn't fund with special local option sales tax dollars ... projects that are critical.''

Szablewski said that about a year ago, county officials came up with a list of needs at about $100 million, but since then the figure has been adjusted to about $40 million.

Szablewski said the county commission is looking at paying the bond off during the next 12 years, which would mean about a 1.1- mill increase for property taxpayers. That's about $40 a year extra in property tax on the average $100,000 home, county officials have said.

Before any such bond could be sought, though, the issue must go before voters in a referendum this November. Leading up to that vote, commissioners are trying to compile a list of needed projects that could be tackled with the money, should voters approve the bond issue.

At Thursday night's meeting, residents were given a survey to fill out about what they think are their most pressing needs. A show of hands showed that a majority of those present were interested in water and sewer projects. Paul and Mary Zielinski, of Martinez, were among the majority.

"We want Bowen Pond cleaned up,'' Mrs. Zielinski said.

The third and final capital improvement projects public meeting is set for 6 p.m. June 8 at the Evans Government Center auditorium.