Callaway Moves Forward with Plans for Sandy Creek - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

Callaway Moves Forward with Plans for Sandy Creek

The controversial water utilities system in Sandy Creek has been a hot topic at commission meetings for weeks and Tuesday was not any different.  The Callaway commissioners made a motion to pass two resolutions tonight.

The first gives permission for Callaway to attach a fee for new utilities customers on their tax bill. Although not considered a property tax the fee will be listed as such.

Residents will receive this fee every year for the next ten years in relation to how many water fixtures are in the household.

The second resolution approves a bond through Regions Bank for up to $900,000 dollars to finance the purchase as a whole the city's water and wastewater system for the Sandy Creek service area.

These resolutions did not come as a relief to Sandy Creek residents who insist they are not getting the treatment they deserve. Callaway residents also expressed their sympathy towards those affected.

"Very honestly we've done an extremely poor job at selling this to ourselves and the citizens of Sandy Creek area," said Callaway resident David Griggs.  

"And I have been down here for months trying to get you guys to reduce the impact fees and it hasn't worked out," said Sandy Creek resident Vernon Mayhew. "I feel like I'm beating my head against the wall."

Commissioner Otano did express the need for the city to look into grants and any relief for Sandy Creek customers. Meanwhile, a lawsuit has been served to Callaway by Sandy Creek residents and is undergoing litigation.