Trailhead restroom plans draw criticism from Jewett council

Mayor Bo Bailie again addressed the trailhead project, but this time received some negative feedback from council members on the restroom issue. He said grade work is being done now, and after having gone down so far, the remainder of the gravel piled up near the trail will not be used.

“We should have nixed this project because that’s a waste of money,” Councilmember Steve Stewart said, with no argument from the others.

Bailie did say that was the only project they could use the funds on. He said they were going after an additional $200,000 with a 0% payback, calling it “free money.” It would be split evenly between Scio and Jewett, which would consist of a bolt restroom that is prefabricated.

“And they basically dig a hole, put the liner in it, take the building and set it over top of it,” Bailie said.

When asked why they could not just tap into the sewer line that is already there, Bailie said they would not have the money for that, plus it would not be possible for that type of building.

“Don’t ask me why,” he said, adding that he did inquire about it.

Bailie asked council what they thought about having one restroom and chasing more funding “down the road.” He said the trailhead money is available every year, with some agreeing that since they are receiving it, they might as well continue applying for it.

Bailie said he did not prefer to have a porta-potty with potential flooding at risk. He did say the bike trail committee volunteered to pump water out of the existing spot, which is being checked on.

“We’ll have to pay the prevailing wage to build the restroom, that’s what’s a killer over here,” Bailie said when asked if they went for the current setup, then built a permanent restroom later.

Bailie said the engineering costs would amount to $400,000 to $500,000. He said it would be cheaper to install a pit than hook up a sewer line. There were objections to the porta-potty setup, with foul odor coming along with that.

“To me it seems like a big headache,” Stewart said.

Other ideas were tossed around, but they agreed a restroom was needed considering picnic tables were planned for the trailhead. Bailie said he was going to continue checking into the matter.

Also, Bailie introduced new Village Administrator Dan Beckett, who was attending his first meeting.