City Council members approved a revised wastewater plant layout Feb. 4, selecting “option two” for the next design phase. They also approved a housing extension and initiated water service negotiations with the nearby Macbride Point subdivision.

The recommended wastewater plant layout places key operational buildings toward the east side of the site, reducing immediate infrastructure costs while also maintaining room for future expansion.

“Option two is our preference,” City Engineer Dave Schechinger told the council. “It helps to reduce some of the … piping … because everything is set up with the direction of flow.”

Council members said they appreciated the focus on planning ahead, while also noted the rising construction costs associated with the project. The council ultimately approved moving forward with the recommended layout after a motion and unanimous vote.

The council approved a one-year site plan extension for the Solon Community Housing Corporation’s proposed multi-building housing project. City staff believe this extension allows time for updated agreements regarding development while also ensuring the project remains active.

“This would be granting a one-year extension to the site plan,” said City Administrator Cami Rasmussen, adding that “within one year they would need to at least apply for the first building permit.”

Project representatives assured the council that financing efforts for the project are currently underway.

Solon Community Housing Corporation Director Mark Takes said, “Our intent and our project schedule right now has a start of construction for the end of the year.”

The council also approved a resolution regarding negotiations to begin a potential water connection with the Macbride Point subdivision. City staff emphasized the vote did not approve the agreement and only allows discussion of potential terms. Proposed negotiation points include higher usage rates and developer responsibility for connection costs.

“They will be charged twice the base residential water usage rate,” City Attorney Kevin Olson said, adding that landowners would be “100% responsible for the cost of connecting the water main and providing connections within their subdivision.”

The council’s discussion addressed water conservation concerns, such as current system flushing.

On the topic of water, on Feb. 16 the Solon Public Library will host state geologist Dr. Keith Schilling, PhD, who will discuss varying topics related to water in Iowa.

In other business, Solon Public Library Director Liz King announced plans to leave her position in order to reunite with her husband after an extended commuting arrangement.

“It is time for me to say goodbye,” King said, “so that we can actually live together in the same house for more than one week each month.”

King’s last day will be March 30.