Commissioners press staff for updates on undergrounding utilities and road conditions

Commissioners used the director’s report to raise several infrastructure questions, including the status of the “purple pipe” reclaimed-water pipeline project, utility undergrounding on the west side, and deteriorating pavement on Talmadge Road.

Commissioner Johnson asked when the purple pipe project would be commissioned and referenced community interest in tying the pipeline to parks such as the golf course and Todd Grove Park. Director Craig Schlatter said he did not have an immediate answer and would follow up at a future meeting.

Commissioners also discussed utility undergrounding: one commissioner described a county-funded project that undergrounded electric service but not other utilities because of funding and cooperation limitations. That commissioner said they had spoken with Cindy Sowers (not present) who explained the limited scope of funding available for undergrounding.

Road condition concerns were raised by commissioners who ride bicycles around town; Talmadge Road from Airport Park to State Street was described as being in poor pavement condition. Commissioners asked whether public works could present a plan for major road repairs at a future meeting; staff said they can attempt to coordinate representatives from public works to present when appropriate.

Jurisdictional note: Commissioners clarified that some construction they observed — including building adjacent to the county jail and a project on North State Street — likely falls under county jurisdiction; staff agreed to inquire with the county.

No formal action was taken; staff committed to follow up with relevant departments and the county and bring status updates to future meetings.