Fort Mill close to deciding on future water service plans

With the continual growth in Fort Mill, Mayor Danny Funderburk says the window of opportunity is quickly closing on a plan to either renegotiate with the City of Rock Hill or build a water plant within the township.

The town’s water service agreement with the Rock Hill expires in 2014, and Funderburk says he recognizes that Fort Mill residents want to see a competitive rate — regardless of whether the water comes from a new plant or Rock Hill.

Funderburk says it’s important for major projects — like a proposed water plant — to be considered with the future in mind.

Funerburk says the town has hired two consultants to offer advice on the town’s water service, and both have agreed that given the proximity to water sources and with the town’s existing water intake, a self-sustaining water plant could be a feasible idea.

Funderburk says he sees no plans to compete with the City of Rock Hill for water service — but instead to provide better rates to town residents.

Funderburk says negotiations between the city continue, and says a decision is expected on the future of the water service agreement in the next few months.