CENTERBURG — Centerburg Village Council explained the proposal for creating a new township with the village came as a result of the Environmental Protection Agency mandate, requiring the village to build a new water/wastewater facility.
During Monday’s public meeting to discuss the proposal, village resident Eleanora Fink, who came with her husband, Edward, asked, “Who is pushing for this change? Is it Hilliar Township or is it the village?”
Kyle Stroh, village solicitor, explained the question was raised frequently by members of council, understanding that many municipalities have become their own township in the past including Fredericktown and Danville. Moreover, the village knew constructing a new water/wastewater facility, a requirement of the Environmental Protection Agency, would have an added burden of a severe increase in water and sewer rates on village residents. Stroh said the issues then became how could this be handled in order to ensure the best interest for village residents.
“Then what are the disadvantages to us residents breaking away from Hilliar,” asked Fink. “I think as residents we should be apprised of what they are.”
“That’s why we are here asking questions tonight to see what are the benefits, what are the pros and cons,” said Mayor Diana Stockmaster. “There are a lot of questions and none of us have made up our minds yet.”
Councilman Dave Beck said one of the reasons the village has stayed with the township for so long is because of the park.
kenesha.beheler@mountvernonnews.com
