Quincy annexes industrial property

QUINCY — The Quincy city limits have been extended to the east following the annexation of about 150 acres approved by the Quincy City Council on March 21. Municipal Services Director Carl Worley wrote the property is zoned industrial.

Council members voted unanimously in favor of the annexation.

The property is east of the previous city limits at Road O NW, south of Road 11 NW and extends to Adams Road North. A portion of the property, about 75 acres, is owned by Michael and Martha Rodgers. The other section, also about 75 acres, is owned by Daniel Blain.

In the annexation applications, both landowners said the intent was to pursue industrial development of the properties that were ultimately brought into the city.

Council members also approved development agreements along with the annexations. The development agreements will remain in effect for seven years, but it can be terminated prior to their expiration, or extended past the seven years.

The city’s existing wastewater treatment system has reached 80% of its capacity, which has triggered a study on expanding it mandated by the Washington Department of Ecology. City officials also are looking at options for additional water rights. Worley wrote in answer to an email from the Herald that the agreements take the impact of growth into account.

“The conditions of the development agreement include the requirement of future developers to provide water rights, participate in our plan to acquire additional and alternate surface water sources,” Worley wrote. “They are aware of water (and) sewer system constraints and will be responsible for assisting with those through impact fees or participation in our plan.”

The city’s existing wastewater treatment system doesn’t extend to the newly annexed property; the developers will be required to pay for the sewer extensions. They will be required to dedicate any and all water rights to the city when the property is developed.

The developers will be required to conduct a traffic study for the bridge at Road 11 NW when the property is developed. They also will be required to make improvements to Road 11 NW, including sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and to add a stormwater runoff system. Those improvements will be made on a time frame to be determined by city officials and the developers.

Cheryl Schweizer can be reached via email at education@columbiabasinherald.com.