Moving Forward with Condemnation

The county is making progress on the last of the easements:

• The Property Committee of the County Commission tonight unanimously recommended approval of all 15 resolutions before it, including condemnation resolutions for 14 properties.
  
• The Wastewater Authority approved the public purpose resolution at its December meeting and will hear the condemnation resolutions at its January 2 meeting at the Agricultural Expo Center at 5:30 p.m.
• The Budget Committee will consider them in January.
  
• The County Commission will consider all 15 resolutions at its January 14 meeting at 7:00 p.m.
  

Notices are being sent to the 14 property owners tomorrow.

Meeting Tonight

Just found out there is a Water Authority meeting tonight, Dec. 5th, at 5:30 pm at the Williamson County Recreation Complex in Franklin off of Hillsboro Rd.

They are discussing bonding requirements of the State, and to consider a resolution pertaining to the Grassland sewer project.

Press Release

Update

A number of folks have asked about the sewer project's progress.

Kristi Earwood with Harpeth Law is working the eminent domain issue to secure the rest of the easements. This involves quite a bit or research, documentation, and legal filings.

What can I say? It is a slow process. Rest assured Kristi is working it.

I'll keep you posted as I learn more.

It's Official: Project Approved

Here's the letter Harpeth Law mailed on July 26:

July 26, 2007

VIA UNITED STATES MAIL

Grassland Area Resident
Franklin, TN 37069

Re: Grassland Area Sewer Project Deadline

Dear Sir or Madam:

Williamson County, with the aid of the efforts of many of your neighbors, has made considerable progress with the Grassland Area Sewer Project. As you may know, in March of 2007, Williamson County established a deadline whereby 60% of the temporary construction easements and 60% of the Agreements for Dedication of Easement for Utility Construction (permanent easements) were to be executed and received by the County no later than July 1, 2007 in order for the sewer project to go forward.

To date, the County has received 71% of the temporary construction easements and 72% of the permanent easements.

As a result, and as promised at the public meeting in March of 2007, the County will proceed with the sewer project. At this time, the County is aggressively pursuing the remaining easements that must be acquired in order to construct the main sewer line and is currently researching the procedure whereby the County would acquire the remaining sewer easements by eminent domain.

Additionally, the County continues in its discussions with Lynwood Utility Corporation to complete its agreements for Lynwood to accept and treat the effluent from the County’s sewer lines as well as finalize the mechanism by which the sewer assessment will be billed to all property owners. Please be advised that this sewer assessment will not be billed until the entire sewer project is constructed and the affected residents will be permitted to connect their residences to the public sewer. Please also be reminded that no one will be required to connect his/her residence to the public sewer, but after seven (7) years, the guarantee of capacity will no longer be available.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Further, if you have any questions about the operation and installation of the sewer system, please contact Williamson County’s engineering consultant, Bo Butler of Smith Seckman Reid at (615) 383-1113.

Very truly yours,


Kristi D. Earwood
County Attorney for Planning and Environment

The Project is Approved

I apologize for this late post, but we were on an extended vacation. Nevertheless...

The county has approved the project with 71% temp and 72% perm easements received (more continue to trickle in). The county is securing the rest of the easements via eminent domain.

Harpeth Law's Kristi Earwood distributed a letter dated 7/26, which I will post in its entirety.

Congratulations!

Sewer Project Nears Reality

The Tennessean published a short article on our sewer project:

Friday, 06/22/07
Sewer project nears reality
Most easements granted, but some Grassland residents oppose cost

By MITCHELL KLINE
Staff Writer

GRASSLAND COMMUNITY — A plan to bring sewer service to Grassland homes with failing septic systems is moving forward.

Last week, the county acquired more than 60 percent of the easements needed to build a low-pressure sewer line that could serve about 455 homes in the area. County leaders had set a July 1 deadline to get that many easements or the project could have been canceled.


"We were having a problem in that this had gone on for many years," said John Lackey, chairman of the Williamson County Water and Wastewater Authority. "The cost of doing the project was escalating and we said we either have to go on and do the project or not do it."

The county still must acquire both temporary and permanent easements before construction can begin. It seems likely that eminent domain will be used to get what some property owners have refused to give.

Kristi Earwood, county attorney for planning and environment, said she has to meet with county officials to determine what, if any, legal action to take.

"I need to sit down with my clients and say there are still about 40 percent of the easements," Earwood said. "Right now I don't have the authority of using eminent domain. If the county wants to go in the direction of eminent domain, they'll have to tell me that."

Some oppose plan

There are Grassland homeowners who oppose the project, mostly because they are being forced to pay close to $4,000 whether they use the sewer line or not.

County commissioners voted in 2004 to pay up to $1.7 million to build the sewer line, provided that homeowners pay it back over 20 years. The latest per-home cost estimate is $3,956, or about $25 per month for 20 years. Homeowners would have to pay an additional $3,000 to hook on to the line, purchase a grinder pump and have their septic systems crushed or filled in. That could end up costing more than $9,000. The sewage will be pumped to and treated by the Lynnwood Utility District. Residents have seven years to connect to the line.

"It's doesn't make sense," said Ernest Haskins, who has lived in Hillsboro Acres since 1975. "I'm opposed to it totally. They never would consider it until they found a way to make the homeowners pay for it."

Haskins said he and many other Grassland residents don't need the sewer line and shouldn't be forced to pay for it.

"I've paid enough in taxes since I've been here to pay for the system many time over," Haskins said. "What the county should have done and what it should do now is put the system in and let us pay our tap fee if we want to hook on."

Neighbors organize efforts

Mike Felts is in favor of the project. He's lived in Hillsboro Acres for 19 years and said he spent "thousands" on septic repairs. He believes the sewer line will improve property values and doesn't see the cost as unreasonable.

"I think a number of people, once they see we've reached 60 percent, will join in," Felts said. "The county is not forcing anybody to hook onto the sewer line. Those not having problems don't have to hook on, but if they ever need to it's there."

Jim Colella, who's lived in the Meadowgreen subdivision since 1995, started an online blog in support of project. He and several other Grassland residents have gotten themselves organized and are working on different fronts. Some have gone door-to-door to encourage people to grant the county easements to build the sewer line. Others are gearing up to negotiate with companies that supply grinder pumps, and crush septic systems.

"The thrust has come from us becoming organized," said Colella. "Prior to this organization, there were a handful of individuals working in fractured, disjointed efforts. It wasn't until we got organized that we got traction."

The project marks the first time Williamson County has gotten involved in building a sewer line. It's a project that has been discussed for at least five years.

County Commissioner Jack Walton, who represents part of the Grassland area, said he never dreamed the project would take as long as it has. He said there are residents in dire need of the sewer line because they can't take showers or do laundry in their homes.

"It has taken longer than I thought it would," Walton said. "I use the analogy of driving to Memphis. If you've never been, you just don't know what to expect."

Rogers Anderson Offers Congratulations

Rogers Anderson, Williamson County Mayor, wrote a nice letter to offer his sincere appreciation and congratulations for all of our hard work getting the Grassland Sewer Project approved.

We are well on our way to the successful implementation of this project, the fruit of which will benefit residents, homeowners and larger community for a very long time.

Congratulations!

GOAL ACHIEVED!

Great news for all of the supporters of the Grassland Sewer Project! We have exceeded our goal of 60% on both temporary and permanent easements.

Simply stated, the project has been approved. Congratulations!

Focus on Permanent Easments

It is very important that homeowners respond to permanent easement requests promptly.

Kristi Earwood is turning around easement revisions very quickly. There seems to be no bottleneck at Harpeth Law.

Bo Butler and SSR are trying to reach property owners who desire an engineering review. It is up to you to stay in touch with Bo Butler and SSR. Please, do not let this important next step slip through the cracks. We need six more permanent easements by 7/1.

However, we are watching the response time of engineering reviews very closely. We will not tolerate the county or any agency of the county missing the 7/1 deadline.

GOAL ACHIEVED! 60% of Temp Easements Reached!

Now, on to the seven ...make that six... five outstanding permanent easements.

Then...phase 2 of our project.

Only One (1) Temporary Easement Needed

Today's count: 1 Temp, 8 Perm needed. We are well on our way to achieving our goal.

Phase II starting as soon as we get official word of 60% approval.

Monticello wants to head off septic tank failures through annexation, at a cost of over $18,000 per household. Read it here. Interestingly, Monticello's property tax will rise significantly by being annexed into Franklin.

I like our solution much better. Here's the text:

Tuesday, 05/22/07

Monticello subdivision asks for annexation into Franklin

By KEVIN WALTERS
Staff Writer

FRANKLIN — The homeowners in the Monticello neighborhood say they want to be annexed by the city.

Jim Mayes, president of the Monticello Home Owners Association, reports that subdivision’s homeowners voted last week overwhelmingly in support of annexation.

"That was a strong showing, and we know their voice has been heard," Mayes said.

Four sections of the Monticello subdivision, which was first developed in the 1960s, have septic systems which would be replaced with the creation of a special assessment district. A newer fifth section currently receives sewer service from the city.

Homeowners in the special assessment district would pay on average $18,250 over a 20-year period for the project.

That request is now being considered by city officials.

No problems in the septic tanks exist now, but the homeowners want the annexation to head off potential problems, Mayes said.

"Septic tanks have a finite life," Mayes said. "At the end of the day, we’re going to have more issues of service. Right now there are no systemic failures."

Only Three Easements Needed!

It's time to notarize your easement and turn it in! We are almost to our goal!

We only need three of the temporary easements to secure 60%. We also need nine permanent easements, but most of those require a engineer review and detailed discussion.

We are nearing the completion on Phase I of our project...Phase II launches soon.

CONFIRMED: 60% IS THE NUMBER

We have confirmed tonight that the 60% goal is the only number we are working towards. Kristi Earwood wrote the core team this evening to clarify her letter of 5/7:

After a careful and studied review of my notes, information available at the public meeting and the official documentation of the meeting as recorded by the representative of the County Mayor’s office, it is my conclusion that the 70% overall support requirement was not adequately discussed or outlined. While I have same in my notes, this requirement is not in the recorded documentation. As a result, the 60% of the temporary easements and 60% of the permanent easements required by July 1, 2007 is the ONLY requirement the County will consider in determining whether to proceed with the Grassland Area Sewer Project past July 1, 2007. In the event that the 60% temporary and 60% permanent minimums are met, then the County will have to consider the next steps for acquiring the remaining necessary easements.

Has the county INCREASED our goal?

The following letter was mailed to non-easement home owners on on May 7th. In it, the county appears to RAISE the goal from 60% approval to 70% approval by 7/1. I am seeking clarification from Kristi Earwood at Harpeth Law. Let's see what she confirms for us.

Although we desire a fair and decent relationship with the county, we will not accept an increased goal under any circumstances. 60% by 7/1 is the stated and agreed upon goal. After which, the county must perform.

Harpeth Law Group, PLLC

Kristi D. Earwood Christina Ferrell Daugherty

Caitlin Noe Moon April A. Ingram

May 7, 2007

VIA UNITED STATES MAIL

Grassland Area Resident

Franklin, TN 37069

Re: Grassland Area Sewer Project Deadline

Dear Sir or Madam:

Williamson County is continuing in its progress on the installation of public sewer in your area.

As you know, Williamson County needs a considerable number of easements from your neighbors to construct the main sewer lines. To date, I have only received approximately 35% of those easements. Further, to continue working toward completing the sewer project,

Williamson County must have the assurance of 70% overall support for the project.

In order to proceed with the project, Williamson County must receive 60% of the easements and 70% notice of overall support before July 1, 2007. If neither is received by July 1, 2007, the Sewer Project will not be constructed.

While the County does not require an easement from your property, I still need some assurance of your support for the overall project. I have enclosed a postcard for you to indicate your support. If you would like to see the project proceed, please return the enclosed postcard before July 1, 2007. This in no way obligates you to connect to the public sewer once installed.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Further, if you have any questions about the operation and installation of the sewer system, please contact Williamson County’s engineering consultant, Bo Butler of Smith Seckman Reid at (615) 383-1113.

I thank you, in advance, for your prompt cooperation.

Very truly yours,

HARPETH LAW GROUP, PLLC

Kristi D. Earwood

Enclosure - Postcard

____________________________________________________________________

2187 Hillsboro Road

Franklin, Tennessee 37179

615.595-7776 ext. 2 telephone 615.595.2779 telecopier

kearwood@harpethlaw.com

Update: Financing and Negotiation Teams

Once we officially cross the 60% threshold, the Financing and Negotiation Teams will schedule an initial meeting. I'll be in contact with all interested parties with the details. Stay tuned.

Almost there! Take action now!

I am pleased to tell you that we are very, very close to achieving our goal of 60%! It is very important that everyone submits their notarized easements as soon as possible.

Also, residents who were not required to submit a signed easement have another opportunity to "vote" in support of the Grassland Sewer Project. You will be receiving a letter from Harpeth Law inviting you to respond affirmatively to the project. Please take advantage of this opportunity.

This is an important week. Please take immediate action to support the sewer project. Your neighbors need your support!

Street Team Going Door-to-Door

Michael Felts, Ron Feenstra, Richard Jones and Andi Creek are walking door-to-door to meet neighbors, answer questions and collect easements.

Andi's husband, Tim, and Cissy Mangrum are also going door-to-door with the team. Both Tim and Cissy are Notaries, and can notarize your easements on the spot. I believe another generous Notary is also traveling with them, so that makes three!

Thanks for your efforts!

First Tennessee First to Step Up

I just heard from the good folks at First Tennessee. They are the first lender to officially step to our aid! From Zane Martin with First Tennesee's Grassland Office:

Mr. Colella,

First off let me apologize for the delay in responding. Mark Cornelius and I have been in discussion with the county bank president, Randy Houston and our head of loan underwriting in Williamson County, Nancy Brown about the current situation in Grassland. We are very excited about helping; to the point that we are going to be able to provide a special loan program to the residents of the Grassland community for sewer connections to the house and pump installation. We will provide more specific information as we move forward.

First Tennessee Bank is committed to supporting our community and look forward to talking with you in more detail about the sewer project. Please feel free to call me to schedule a time to discuss your questions.

Best Regards,

Zane

R. Zane Martin
First Tennessee Brokerage, Inc.
Financial Center Manager & Registered Rep.
Grassland Office
Franklin, TN 37069
615.791.0498 Office
615.790.3069 Fax

Fieldstone Farms Meeting

Earlier tonight, a small team of our neighborhood representatives and a county official met with the Fieldstone Farms homeowners association to discuss the easements needed to connect the Grassland Sewer Project to the Lynwood Utility District.

The Fieldstone Farms folks were very welcoming and sympathetic to our cause. It was a pleasure to discuss the situation with them.

A big thanks to our good neighbors in Fieldstone Farms!

Good Neighbors

From dictionary.com:

neigh·bor –noun

1. a person who lives near another.
2. a person or thing that is near another.
3. one's fellow human being: to be generous toward one's less fortunate neighbors.
4. a person who shows kindliness or helpfulness toward his or her fellow humans: to be a neighbor to someone in distress

Are you, like me, concerned for those in our neighborhoods that are on fixed or moderate incomes? Perhaps the elderly are on your mind? Perhaps those among us struggling to make ends meet? How can they afford to join the Grassland Sewer Project?

You are not alone.

37069 UNITED! recognizes the need to solve the very real financial needs of our neighbors. Rest assured we are discussing it, concerned about it, and will do everything in our power to work with the county to solve these issues in a truly neighborly way.

Solutions can, and will, be found by working together in a spirit of collaboration and care. No one will be left behind.

You Have Seven (7) Years To Tap With No Additional Costs

In case you had not heard...

If the project is approved, residents will have up to seven (7) years to connect to the system at no additional cost. The Lynwood taps will be held for you, and the system will be available for you when you are ready.

Each resident will still be accountable for the initial installation expense @ $3,956 per household. This is the cost of laying the main lines. All homeowners pay this, even if you don't connect. The county will allow monthly payments $24.97 @ 4% interest.

Bottom line: $24.97/month buys you seven (7) years to make up your mind.

What Can $24.97 a Month Buy You?

I've received a number of e-mails with the same common concern: "I want to do this, but I just cannot afford it." For example:

I understand you have increased the warranty for the new system, and that's great! However, a good warranty doesn't do me any good if I can't afford the system. Please give me an exact detail of what it's going to cost and where I get the money to pay for this. We have 2 students in college. I'm working 2 jobs and so is my husband to make ends meet now. How in the world do we afford another $17,000 bill...unless there is a way to afford this, we won't be adding another bill to the already long list. Let me know what you can do to help us in this situation, because I do understand the increase in value if your property does have sewer and water.

While I share this concern, and will work very hard with the Financing Team and Vendor Negotiation Team to help, I have come to an epiphany of sorts: I cannot afford to miss this opportunity. You see, $24.97 a month not only buys me the right to join the Grassland Sewer Project, it will protect my property value and it may even accelerate my home's appreciation for years to come.

Let me break it down for you:

• The minimum cost for a homeowner is $24.97/month. This fee funds the build out of the septic system, but not your costs to tie in. It provides your neighbor with the opportunity to tie in if their septic system is failing.
• You may be asking "what do I care if their septic tank fails? That is their problem, not mine." Technically yes, you are right. However, consider what will happen to your property value if your neighbor has a bad septic system and cannot get it fixed. Come to think of it, not just your immediate neighbor, but anyone in your neighborhood...or a home in any of the affected areas for that matter.
  
• One - just one - irreparable septic system will likely cause every one's home value to decline. Imagine two, or three, or ten. Imagine trying to sell your home then. At the very least, a smart buyer will want the seller to compensate the buyer for taking on the risk of your septic failing. That will most likely take the form of a lower offer price.
  
• The truth is that our areas are already considered risky because of the reputation of our septic problems. Ask any honest Realtor and they will tell you the same thing: avoid these areas if you can because the septic systems are failing. Our Realtor told us this 12+ years ago. The problem has only worsened since then.
• This fear has already suppressed home values in the affected areas. The benefits of huge yards, great location, excellent schools, etc have not been fully valued by the market because of nasty, disease-ridden effluent in our yards. That is the cold, hard truth.
  

So, what does $24.97 a month do for me? Sure, it solves the problem for my neighbor. But I take away the only objection to living in the affected areas. Therefore, I benefit by unlocking the pent-up demand for homes here...and protect, even accelerate, the value of my home.

$24.97/month is a small price to pay for such awesome benefits. I'll take that deal any day!

Questions From a Neighbor

If you or your neighbors have questions about the Grassland Sewer Project, please take the time to write 37069 United! and we will help you get the answers you need.

Polly Wright of Colt Lane wrote me with a number of great questions. I'd bet she's not the only one with these questions, so I've paraphrased her questions and quoted my answers for all to read:

Q: Shouldn't we call this the Berry's Chapel Sewer Project? Could you change the name to better reflect the area?

A: Regarding the name of the project, the county is referring to it as the "Grassland Sanitary Sewer Project." You are probably right that it would be better to call it the Berry's Chapel project. However, I am going to keep in-step with the official name of the project to avoid confusion. Therefore, we will continue to call it the Grassland Sewer Project.

Q: I heard that the Highgate subdivision had a sewer installed and it was very inexpensive. Is that true?

A: I will do some research into the Highgate subdivision and get back to you. Our hope is that by negotiating together we can significantly lower the costs of the project. As you can tell, we've already gotten a 250% improvement in the grinder warranty. That is just the start!

Q: Can Lynwood handle our waste? Haven't they had a lot of problems over the years?

A: Regarding Lynwood, you are right that they have had a number of problems over the years. However, I have confirmed that they invested a significant sum in a large capital expansion and modernization project. They have almost 500 taps reserved for our project plus enough capacity to handle the waste.

Q: I've heard that residents of Cottonwood pay a lot for sewer. Will we have to pay more than them?

A: Regarding your Cottonwood question, there are a number of factors that contribute to monthly sewer costs including the volume of waste water that is processed. The lowest cost for our neighborhoods is $24/month, which is what it would cost to install the main lines, but not hook up. The cost per month would increase as you hook up and process waste. [Note: Please review the official "cost elements" document]

It is likely that any costs incurred by this project would be offset by increased home values. In fact, some real estate brokers are claiming that Meadowgreen/Hillsboro Acres home values might jump by as much as 50%. Farmington could also see healthy appreciation.

Q: Please define a failing septic system for me. Is it really a serious problem?

A: I will try to get a more specific description of a failed septic system, but I think it is safe to assume it is akin to "a system that will no longer process waste water in a sanitary way." It is indeed a health issue and it is serious. [Note: read more about the seriousness of this problem here]

Q: I've lived here a long time and my septic tank works. I've taken care of it, and its hardly needed any help over the years. Why can't people just learn how to take care of theirs? It's not that hard to do, and is a lot cheaper.

A: My septic tank, like yours, is healthy. However, my neighbor's is not, and, despite his best efforts to service and maintain his system, his land won't perk. Therefore, he pumps his family's waste into his yard, my yard, and other neighbors' yards. The stench is terrible in the summer. It is a health threat to his children and my son. The problem is not the way he cares for the system, nor the many repairs he's made, nor his desire to fix the problem. The fact is simple - his land will no longer process his waste. His land is too rocky, too small, too clay packed, etc to handle the waste any more. More and more neighbors are experiencing this, and it hurts all property values.

Again, if you have questions or comments, please write us at 37069 United! and we will get the answers you need.

Wanted: Healthy Spetic System Owners Who Support the Project

If you, like me, have a healthy septic system but still support the project, tell us why. Here are a few questions to frame your response:

• What is your name and address? (optional)
• In which neighborhood do you live?
  
• How long have you owned your home?
• Does your septic system work well?
• What are the main reasons why you support the Grassland Sewer Project?
  
• In your mind, what are the benefits of the project? How do you justify the cost?
  

Email stories to jim.colella@gmail.com

How can I let the county know I support this if I am not required to remit an easement approval?

The Uhrig family on Brookside asked this great question:

• Q: How can I let the county know I support this project, when I am not required to send an easement approval?
• A: Simple! Call, email or write Kristi Earwood with Harpeth Law. She is keeping a master list of those who support the project - including those residents who support the project, but are not required to submit an easement release.
  

Kristi can be reached at:

Kristi D. Earwood
Harpeth Law Group, PLLC
2187 Hillsboro Road
Franklin, Tennessee 37069
Phone (615) 595-7776
Fax (615) 595-2779
Reply to: kearwood@harpethlaw.com

Your "vote" matters - please contact Kristi soon!

We have our first notary!

Suzanne Jeffers of Derby Lane is a notary. She is willing to notarize easement documents at no charge. You can reach her at (615)714-1715.

Thank you Suzanne!

Septic Tank Problems Around The World

Here are just a few headlines from around the world. As you will see, the septic tank problem is widespread and impacts many communities:

1. Failing septic tanks cited as major issue in Ohio
2. Lax Septic Tank Oversight Brews Health Hazards in Metro Atlanta
3. Failing septic tanks investigated for E.coli outbreak in Kentucky
4. Ireland finds that failing septic systems source of E.coli
5. Failing septic tanks contribute to Lake Helena (Montana) watershed problems
6. Colorado residents demand help for failing septic systems
7. Washington shellfish industry fears contamination from various sources including... you guessed it.
8. Australia has problems too
9. Modesto, CA problems
10. Raw Sewage in Puget Sound
11. Fairfax County, VA
12. E.coli difficult to repair in KY
13. 100 private wells contaminated in North Carolina
14. Areas across U.S. Work to Avert Crises Sparked by Septic Systems

Septic Tank Testimonies Wanted

If you've had problems with your septic tank, tell us about it.

Here are a few questions to frame your story:

• What is your name and address? (optional)
• In which neighborhood do you live?
  
• How long have you owned your home?
• When did you first notice problems?
• What steps have you taken to fix your septic system?
  
• Did the fixes work? How much did it cost?
• How has your failing septic tank affected your family and/or your neighbors?

Sign Up For Email Updates

Please sign up for automatic email updates from 37069 UNITED!

Simply send an email to me at jim.colella@gmail.com. Your information will be kept confidential and never used for any other purpose.

What if I've already turned in my easement approval?

A good question was raised by Moose Smith of Derby Lane: "what if I've already turned in my easement approval? Do I need to do it again?"

The short answer: no.

If you've already turned in notarized easement approval documents, you do not need to redo them. You are done. Sit back, relax, and dream of the day when your waste water is no longer pumped into your yard! Ah, what a glorious day that will be!

Misplaced your easement approval form?

Have you misplaced your easement approval form? No problem!

Please contact Kristi Earwood with Harpeth Law Group. She has the forms you need, and can even notarize your documents on the spot. Here's Kristi's contact info:

Kristi D. Earwood
Harpeth Law Group, PLLC
2187 Hillsboro Road
Franklin, Tennessee 37069
Phone (615) 595-7776
Fax (615) 595-2779
Reply to: kearwood@harpethlaw.com

Easement Approvals By Neighborhood

The following documents illustrate which of our neighbors have remitted notarized easements.

Keep in mind that just because an easement approval has not been remitted does not mean your neighbors do not support the project. In fact, I have yet to turn in my easement approval! Shame on me!

Keep your eyes on the prize - 60% approval by 7/1/07!

Click the image for a larger view. If you'd like a .pdf email me.

Meadowgreen:













Farmington:













Brownwood:













Hillsboro Acres:

Cost Elements Document

This document was distributed during the last town hall meeting at the rec center. If you'd like a .pdf, please email me. Click the picture for a larger image:

BREAKING NEWS! Extended Warranties from E-One

After tonight's meeting, Marvin Springer, Sales Manager for E-One, informed me that he may be willing to extend his grinder's warranty to five (5) years at no cost to residents.

This is a nice first step for the community - and reminds us of the benefits generated when we stick together.

Stay tuned for more information.

Sewer Routes - By Neighborhood

Here are the official sewer routes for the Farmington, Hillsboro Acres, and Meadowgreen communities (click the picture for a larger image):

Help Needed! Teams Forming!

We will need help to achieve the goal! Please consider if you are the right person for one or more of these jobs:

• Neighborhood Champions: Each neighborhood requires at least (but not limited to) three Champions. The role of Champion is essential to achieve our goal. Champions will walk door-to-door, speak to neighbors, distribute mailings, field questions, and, ultimately, motivate our neighbors to approve the project before July 1, 2007.
  

• Notary Public: Active Notary Publics are needed! Many of our neighbors do not have easy access to a Notary. If you are willing to meet residents at their home, your home, or after hours please step forward.
  

• Vendor Negotiation Team: If the project is approved, a Vendor Negotiation Team will be formed. Up to ten residents will join the Vendor Negotiation Team. This team will be responsible for researching vendors, collecting specifications, analyzing features and benefits, and negotiating favorable terms and conditions on behalf of the community. Residents with extensive negotiating experience, particularly on deals worth $5MM+ is a real plus. Residents with extensive plumbing and/or construction experience are also needed.
  

• Financing Team: The Financing Team will identify up to five competitive financing offers for residents who desire financing. The Financing Team will seek low or no fee financial instruments from a variety of institutions. Banking, finance and accounting professionals are desired.
  

• Attorney: You will serve the community as the resident legal touch point. You will answer community questions and offer sound advice for neighbors who request it. If the project is approved, you will participate on the Vendor Negotiation Team - helping us review various vendor terms and conditions. Must offer services pro bono.

• Accountant: You will advise the community on financial matters including helping neighbors with fixed or moderate incomes find solutions. You will also participate on the Financing Team. Must offer services pro bono.

• Printer: Printers are needed to donate signage. We’ve already obtained permission from the city for small signs – now we need the signs. Please help us raise awareness about 37069 UNITED! and the July 7 deadline.

More coming! Stay tuned...

Welcome to 37069 UNITED!

Welcome neighbors! Thanks for visiting 37069 UNITED! As you know, our neighborhoods face a significant challenge: failing septic systems. It is time to solve the problem. It is time to unite!

37069 UNITED was formed with four simple objectives:

1. Aggregate and disseminate factual information about the Grassland Sewer Project
2. Motivate our neighborhoods to approve the Grassland Sewer Project before July 1, 2007
3. Launch a powerful community-wide bargaining collective to select vendors with the best products, best warranties, best service and lowest price
4. Find a local bank who is willing to offer highly competitive lending terms to anyone desiring or needing financing for their sewer installation
   

Please visit regularly to find up-to-date information about the project. Feel free to discuss posts in the comments section (you can post anonymously if you desire). Inflammatory or vulgar comments will be deleted.