Pact made with Horry
on sewer

By NICOLE CARTRETTE

With at least two major residential subdivisions coming to southeastern Columbus County and commercial prospects eyeing the area, there is a need for water and sewer infrastructure in the area, officials say.

Commissioners addressed that need Wednesday morning with a unanimous vote to approve a sewer service agreement with the Grand Strand Water and Sewer Authority (GSWSA).

The group, based in Conway, S. C., has exclusive rights to build, service and operate a sewer system within the area bordering the South Carolina line. Commissioners say the move will allow sewer service to come into the Dothan area with no cost to the county.

“I would like to thank Mr. (Lynwood) Norris,” Commissioner David Dutton said. “It’s the first thing that is really going to have a big economic impact on this county.”

He later commented that bringing water and sewer to the 5th district was an endeavor he was glad to take part in. “It makes me feel good about things. We accomplished something and our good intentions proved this.”

Norris said two residential developments are coming to the area, one with 356 homes and the other with 100. He said he was aware of two more individuals who had purchased 292 acres of land that they plan to develop also. “We have got several department stores looking at coming into that area,” Norris said, but offered no additional details.

“It’s another sign of our growth,” Chairman Kip Godwin said, adding that this brings to light the importance for putting subdivision ordinances in place.

Fred Richardson, chief executive officer for GSWSA, said the organization’s board will vote on the agreement later this month.

Richardson said the project was approached and negotiated relatively quickly and really came under discussion with his board just a few months ago.

Richardson said water systems need to be in place before the sewer lines are extended. He said construction and expansion will be based on the need or demand for service. Richardson said the agreement is the first of the kind with a North Carolina county.

Columbus County citizens will pay the rate that Horry County citizens pay plus 50 percent because of the distance waste will be pumped. The current basic rates in Horry County, S.C. are $8.11 and $1.70 per gallon up to 8,000. Rates increase for use above 8,000 gallons.