The Duncans want to build a little more than a mile from the nearest available water and sewer lines. Neither they nor the city can afford to run a line that far for one house.
“The cost of bringing that service to the Duncans’ site could be anywhere from $17 to $44 a linear foot,” advised Councilman Jason Powell. “That adds up to anywhere from $85,000 to more than $200,000.”
So, the Duncans asked for an exception to the rule that requires all houses in the city to be hooked up to city water and sewer. They sought a variance to allow them to set up their own well and septic system.
In October, the city’s planning and zoning commission heard their case and recommended granting the variance. The city council refused.
DIAMOND CITY — Kayla Duncan is presenting a tranquil front, but her voice betrays her emotion.