During a recent Willard City Council meeting, officials discussed the need to notify residents of South Willard that they will be required to connect into the City's water system should a petition to annex the area be accepted.
For the last several years, citizens of South Willard have battled over the idea of being annexed into Willard City with strong arguments from both sides. However, Box Elder County Planner, Scott Lyons, said that the County has yet to receive notice of a petition being filed.
"A petition for annexation is sent to the City for approval," Lyons explained. "They have 15 days to either approve or reject the petition. The County is only notified that a petition has been filed. So far we haven't received any notice."
Despite an official petition not being filed, Willard City officials feel it is important to have policies and infrastructure in place for when an annexation occurs. This includes water and sewage connections, both areas that would ultimately bring in additional funds to the City.
Some residents don't like the idea of being made to abandon their own water wells, or disconnecting from the Conservancy District or other water sources. However, officials pointed out the benefits of having all citizens on the same water systems.
The City Council decided not to rule on the ordinance change, but did choose to look over the issue and a proposed draft of the notifying letter before further discussion and a final vote.
