Williams County commissioners postpone groundbreaking decision on waterline initiative

Williams County commissioners are at a standstill regarding a critical decision concerning a waterline project destined for an AquaBounty facility in Pioneer. The commissioners failed to reach a conclusion on the permit request during their recent meeting, deferring the matter to a later date. The pending permit is one of the remaining vestiges of AquaBounty Technologies’ defunct fish-rearing initiative in Pioneer village, as the county contemplates another potential appeal while the village administration persists in pursuing the right-of-way permit.

A recent ruling by a three-judge panel from Ohio’s 6th District Court of Appeals granted permission for the construction of a water transmission pipeline and wastewater transmission pipeline. AquaBounty had agreed to cover the costs of the pipelines and transfer control to a newly established public utility. Concerns have arisen about the financial responsibility for the waterline, with Pioneer residents fearing they may be held accountable for its construction and upkeep now that the project seems largely abandoned.

Commissioner Terry Rummel acknowledged the public’s opposition to the project but remains optimistic about future opportunities for community input. While acknowledging the slim chances of success, Rummel notes the determination of residents to challenge the decision, expressing uncertainty about the project’s prospects. Conversely, Commissioner Bart Westfall believes that pursuing a legal battle in court is necessary, doubting the project’s eligibility as a public utility under existing criteria.

According to the village administrator, Anthony Burnett, water withdrawal and discharge permits are pending issuance, leaving the county with a decision to grant access to their right-of-way or continue pursuing legal action. Rummel, who was initially against the appeal, advocates for agreements that safeguard the county’s interests, citing potential benefits for schools and tax revenues if the project materializes. In a proactive initiative, the county engineer, Todd Roth, proposed a road-use maintenance agreement to hold the project developer accountable for any road damages, thereby protecting county infrastructure.

The ongoing debate underscores the complex issues surrounding the waterline project, with stakeholders advocating for different courses of action. However, as the county deliberates its next steps, the future of the AquaBounty waterline in Pioneer remains uncertain. Residents continue to voice their concerns, underscoring the significance of community engagement in shaping local infrastructure projects. The decisions made by Williams County commissioners in the coming days will have far-reaching implications for the region and its residents, highlighting the importance of careful deliberation and strategic planning in addressing contentious issues within the community.