Waterline agreement approved

The plan awaits validation from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.
NEWTON FALLS -- Newton Falls City Council moved forward Monday with plans to provide services to its neighbors by gaining approval for a waterline project that would extend services outside city limits.
After almost two years of meetings between Braceville Township and Newton Falls, a contract between the two was introduced last month. The contract calls for Newton Falls to provide water service to Braceville Township residents and businesses not served by a water district.
The waterline project was dependent upon an agreement from Newton Falls and Trumbull County Commissioners, and that agreement passed Monday. It must now be approved by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency before the new line, which will run along Braceville-Robinson Road, can be installed.
According to the contract, Braceville Township residents will be charged the current rate of water service for Newton Falls residents plus an additional 40 percent. The current proposal calls for a 25-year contract.
"It's a pretty good contract. It helps get water out there when there isn't much else they can do," Newton Falls City Manager David Watson said.
Joint economic development
Over the past few months, the two sides have discussed forming a Joint Economic Development District. The two sides are still looking to work together on more projects, including electric and sewer service.
Both parties are optimistic about this and future joint ventures, officials said.
"They have the land; we have the utilities. It's a good combination for both parties involved," said Newton Falls Councilman Steve Stevens.
A number of details are still being negotiated, including the cost of construction and maintenance. Watson said he has been looking at other communities with similar agreements to see what fits the two parties the best.
"There are a lot of different things that could happen," Watson said.
Braceville Township trustees and the Newton Falls City Council will meet Monday to further talks on the agreement. The meeting will be at 7 p.m. at the Newton Falls administration building.