Commission approves up to $2 million buy-in, asset transfer agreement with Spring Hill for sewer service

The Johnson County Commission on June 26 approved a resolution authorizing up to $2 million in funding for a Spring Hill system buy-in and approved an agreement with the City of Spring Hill to transfer part of the Johnson County Wastewater (JCW) system to city ownership. The vote was unanimous.

Aaron Witt (presented as "Witt" in staff materials), Johnson County Wastewater project lead, told the board the buy-in represents a cost-avoidance strategy: the county had planned roughly $14 million to rehabilitate two pump stations and roughly five miles of force main that serve the area. “The $2,000,000 buy-in that we're proposing will lessen the impact on the residents there. That's a net $12,000,000 savings in our capital plan by executing this agreement,” Witt said, adding the county also would save an estimated $350,000 annually in power and treatment costs.

The arrangement would shift gravity sewer service for some areas to Spring Hill and remove two JCW pump stations from service; JCW would salvage reusable equipment and demolish the decommissioned pump stations within a year of transfer, Witt said. He also described a joint communications plan with Spring Hill to inform affected residents about changes, service responsibilities and comparative rates; he said Spring Hill’s rates are comparable to — and currently slightly lower than — JCW rates.

Public commenter Ben Hobert pressed the board for details on valuation and timing of reimbursement, saying the briefing packet did not fully itemize the value of pipe, easements and other assets being transferred. Commissioners said the agreement includes contingencies and noted public-notice language: the transfer is contingent on conditions including notice to property owners and mutual determinations in the agreement.

Commissioners debated public outreach and timing; Commissioner Ashcraft urged earlier resident notice in future similar matters. Commissioner Brewer, who represents the affected area, said staff had worked closely with Spring Hill and the option both reduced capital expense and reduced residents’ ongoing costs. The motion passed 7–0.

Key figures noted by staff: estimated capital avoidance of ~$12 million (net of the $2 million buy-in); estimated annual operating cost savings of about $350,000; buy-in amount: up to $2,000,000.