In the past the city had established a Five Year Road Plan
and attempted to get roads within the city paved. The idea was good but getting there had its
pitfalls. The plan was conceived with
very large expenditures to be accomplished annually. Doing this required bonding and the required annual
debt payments. The economy saw a
slowdown which stopped development and started a reduction in property
values. Assessments and taxes weren’t
being paid. A tax appeal was filed by
the largest tax payer and the feeling of caution swept in.
The Five Year Plan was abandoned. The city rode the storm of decreasing taxable
values. Finances were shored up and
discussions were had about continuing to accomplish some improvements. It was recognized that at least one of the
policies of the city was difficult to deal with. Streets were not to be paved until there was
sanitary sewer installed. It was recognizing
that we have many lots already with sanitary sewer. There are areas where sewer will probably not
be possible or needed in the distant future.
It was felt some paving should be an option ahead of sanitary
sewer.
The development of Whitebirch Village was approved but given
the economy was put on hold. This
project was conceived with the understanding that it would be constructed with
sanitary sewer. As this project started
to come together a different approach to their plans was recognized. Utilizing an existing lift station and
expanding the project area provided for a more economical approach so two goals
could be accomplished; sanitary sewer and paved streets.
Working through this plan the city was able to address an
improvement project. The project
included sanitary sewer in Creek Circle and portions of Whitebirch Drive. Creek Circle and portions of Whitebirch Drive
were also paved. The city has accepted the improvements. The project has been completed and is
considered a success as two of the units built in Whitebirch Village have
sold.
Limited growth and development have returned to Breezy Point. So far in 2014 we have seen 11 single family
residence building permits being issued.
Other construction activity is seen throughout the area and contractors
say they are busy. The economy may not
be booming but it has turned in the right direction.
