Commission approves $4,500 irrigation tap fee, citing failed drip system and low-pressure line

The Greenwood Redevelopment Commission voted May 12 to amend the irrigation contract with Mendoza Landscape to cover a $4,500 utility tap fee needed to upgrade to a 2-inch water line.

Staff described a months-long effort to get the irrigation system working after plant losses. According to the presenter, the initial installation relied on a 5/8-inch line that did not provide sufficient pressure, and attempts to rely on drip irrigation failed. The presenter said that to serve both plants and planned turf areas the site needs a 2-inch water tap; the contractor advanced the work and the utility charged a $4,500 tap fee. “American Water made sure to charge us their $4,500 that they are entitled to by their rate case,” the presenter said on the record.

Commissioners moved, seconded (record shows Mr. Harris as the seconder for the vote on this item), and approved the amendment; the transcript records the outcome as approved with five affirmative votes. The amendment was described on the record as unmarked up by the contractor (staff said the $4,500 was a passthrough charge from the utility). The transcript also references the utility as “IW” in places; the meeting record does not clarify that acronym.

The Commission did not specify additional funding sources during the discussion. Staff indicated the upgrade is intended to maintain plantings and present the redevelopment area consistently with adjacent properties.