Evansville Planning Commission: Recommends annexation of part of Larson Acres for watershed plan

Over three years ago, at the Evansville Planning Commission meeting regarding the very first plan proposal for Westfield Meadows, the planning commission heard very heated testimony from residents that they wanted a larger vision of water management for the west side. And they wanted the developer to absorb much of the costs. It was not a happy scene.

Last night at the Evansville Planning Commission meeting a major portion of the puzzle of watershed management was put in place. The Evansville Planning Commission recommended to Common Council that The Larson acres necessary for the regional watershed plan be annexed to Evansville.

Union Twp responded that this annexation was really not necessary at this time and could occur later. Mr. Saur reviewed however the fact that under terms of the developer agreements, the city was to be responsible for maintenance of the watershed infrastructure, and some of it was in poor condition, and maintenance was going to be very important.

There are about 100 lots that might be developed for residential between 2008 and 2012, and questions were raised about that. The issue of whether that area will be approved for residential can be addressed later, depending on the pace of development and market demand. The annexation last night was really about the watershed, and getting it in place.

This action last night is good news for all west side residents since the improvement of the regional water handling will benefit all. It is historic in that it marks the first time that a developer has created a larger plan than just his plats to assure proper watershed handling.

As always, if you attended this meeting, and wish to go on the comment line to add to the minutes, feel free to do so.