Ash Grove voters approve wastewater ballot question

Ash Grove voters overwhelmingly passed the single issue on the ballot for their Feb. 2 special election. The infrastructure issue allowed the city to apply for grants, lessening the cost of a total wastewater overhaul.
The measure which would result in up to $1.75 million in improvements passed with votes of 59 in favor and 17 against.  The improvements would have taken place whether the measure passed or not, according to Ash Grove Mayor Caleb Smith, the only thing that changes with the passage of the ballot question is how cheap those improvements will be. A pass now enables the city to apply for grants, lessening the financial impact for both the city and on the water bills of citizens. If the measure did not pass, citizens would see a spike in their bill of more than $30.
Wastewater improvements, which number many across multiple areas of the system, are necessary regardless of whether the measure passed. Upgrades are due as many pieces of the wastewater system are outdated, not because the city has a need for more capacity.
“Having these funds available will significantly reduce the strain on our Public Works team, allowing them to focus more effectively on repairs and maintenance throughout town rather than constantly reacting to emergencies,” said Smith. “Our goal is to meet—and maintain—industry standards in all areas of operation, and we are committed to keeping that standard at the forefront of every decision we make.”
The necessary improvements are numerous including the need for multiple replacement parts at headworks, the oxidation ditch and clarifiers, respectively, among others. A fact sheet from the city stated that the improvements are to protect businesses, homes and public health.

“These efforts are about delivering long-term value, reliability, and sustainability for the citizens of Ash Grove—both now and in the years ahead,” said Smith.
According to Smith, these projects are going to be taken care of in order of importance with the most critical going out for bid first.
“This approach allows us to address immediate concerns while also positioning Ash Grove for responsible future growth,” said Smith.  “At the same time, these upgrades help us properly maintain the infrastructure our current residents rely on every day.”