City: Plan is to dismantle un-needed towers

 Speculation about the future of the soon-to-be defunct Highway 18 water tower may come to an end Monday night, Oct. 6. The City Council is expected to discuss a timeline for demolishing the 250,000 gallon multi-leg storage tower.

 City Administrator Scott Flory said the City has not received any offer to purchase the water tower, however he is aware of interest to turn the elevated structure into a home. 

 Throughout the month of September, the Council listened as four residents of the Four Winds area spoke against the idea of selling the water tower, citing concerns for environmental issues related to lead-based paint used on the tower, potential sewer and septic service problems, and a possible negative impact on the neighborhood and community.
One North Shore Drive resident spoke in favor of selling the water tower to have it become a residence.
Councilmembers, like Flory, said they have not been presented with any proposals or bids for the parcel of land, with or without the water tower structure.
“There has been much comment from residents about an unspecified, un-proposed idea or about an individual wanting to transform the tower to a residence.  In my opinion, those comments are not relevant to the city at this point,” said Second Ward Council Representative Tony Nelson. “I will not comment on any hypotheticals concerning the water tower until we have collectively and publicly discussed what direction to take and if we have received an inquiry or proposal from someone wanting to purchase the land and/or space.”
Nelson pointed out it has been the City’s plan to deconstruct the north water tower upon completion of the new one. The south water tower in Pine Tree Park is also scheduled to come down in the near future.
Councilmen Dana Brant and Gary Hugi said they have only heard rumors about a plan to transform the water tower into a home. Neither was enthusiastic.
“I am not impressed with the idea, but I have made no decision,” said Hugi.
“Personally, I would like to see it down and then become green space, or sell it,” said Brant. An engineer’s specific plan for delivery of infrastructure services and feasibility would
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