On Monday night, with a large crowd in attendance, Mason’s City Commission approved Public Utility Easements from Mason County Habitat for Humanity, Inc.
to the City of Mason. This approval will allow the City to put in the electrical infrastructure which will make it possible for the family to move into their completed Habitat home. Habitat has paid the City $18,000 to put in the electricity, said Jess lic comments on the issue, which had been tabled at the last meeting as the Commission voted to look further into the legal ownership of streets in the “Mason Gospel” or “Gooch” subdivision. Originally platted in 1906, the property had undergone changes in the ensuing decades, resulting in questions of street ownership, and whether the streets had been formally dedicated by the City.
Comments were limited to two minutes per individual, or five minutes if speaking for a group of five people. Some commenters expressed opposition to building a home without existing infrastructure in place. Others said the City should ensure standards of roads, lighting, and utilities. Some spoke in support of Habitat, and expressed disappointment in what they felt were disparaging remarks against Habitat. A Mason City ordinance, 05291, was brought up, which outlines the way to establish a subdivision. Historical events were recounted, as well as City involvement with the property.
