When Phillip Armes moved to Dillard Street 50 years ago back in 1972, the ditch behind his home was narrow enough to step across. Now it’s 30-ft. chasm that continues to grow. Armes has bent the ears of Town officials for decades, and Council took action after a passionate pleas last month from son Ray and daughter Cindy. The Wait Is Nearly Over
He’s been complaining off-and-on about the growing ditch behind his home for 20 years, and relief is finally headed Phillip Armes’ way.
Town Council on July 18th voted 3-2 to authorize Town staff to pursue the estimated $51,000 improvement project between April 1st and December 31st, 2023.
Town Manager Philip Vannoorbeeck said the Town should have available funds at that time. Vannoorbeeck didn’t speak for or against the project, he simply asked for more time if Council chose to proceed.
Council President Eric Nash and Ward C rep Jacob Allman cast the dissenting votes. Nash reiterated his belief that Town forces shouldn’t be repairing ditches on private property, particularly when the Town hasn’t created the problem.
Nash and Allman two months ago also voted against an $87,000 ditch improvement slated to take effect on private property off of North West Avenue near the homes of Aaron Somerville and Robert Evans.
“We’re looking at spending almost $140,000 on two private ditches,” Nash declared in disbelief.
Armes, a lifetime volunteer firefighter, resides on South Dillard Street, and Council’s action includes improving only 100 linear feet or work.
Mayor Billy Coleburn asked that Councilwoman Shelia Jones’ motion be amended to include a two-year moratorium on the Town repairing any additional private ditches unless there is imminent danger to an occupied residence. Mrs. Jones agreed.
Nash said that with a new Council to take office January 1st, the moratorium essentially will prove meaningless.
Coleburn agreed that various Councils have taken conflicting positions on ditches, but at least the moratorium would have to be overturned by formal vote.
“Just remember,” Nash told his colleagues, “we have to find the money somewhere. It’s not free. It comes from every person sitting in this room, including myself.”
Allman estimated that the new project equates to about $20 per electric meter.
Armes, son Ray, and daughter Cindy left Council satisfied with Council’s decision.
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