Appomattox official: Reliable water source critical to attract businesses

APPOMATTOX — A reliable water source is critical for economic growth in the town of Appomattox, and in order for that to occur, there must be an upfront investment for infrastructure.

That was among the messages sent to Town Council during Monday’s meeting where citizens and local experts reiterated many arguments for connecting to the U.S. 460 water line that Appomattox County is preparing to build.

Bryan David, with Region 2000 Economic Development Council, told council members that businesses scout locations long before talking to that locality and there is a list of needs that, if not already existing, will cause those businesses to look elsewhere. “If a municipality relies on well water as its sole source, it’s usually enough to get them off the list” of potential locations, David said.

Mayor Paul Harvey asked David and others to speak to Town Council during a lengthy presentation, where the long history of the water line debate was summed up. Among the many issues were the corrosive nature of the well water, which causes copper and zinc to leach from pipes and end up in the wastewater plant.

Campbell County Utilities and Services Authority representative Danny Hylton told council that Rustburg faced a similar issue with the corrosive water and solved it by switching to water from the Otter River in 2003.

Six citizens addressed council, most criticizing council members for delaying a decision on the issue for years. Council was slated to meet with Appomattox County supervisors earlier this month, but that meeting was postponed and has yet to be rescheduled.

“Forget about the town of Appomattox and forget about Appomattox County,” said Bill Jamerson. “Do what’s right for the citizens of Appomattox.”