
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, June 30, 1990                   TAG: 9006300318
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: A-4   EDITION: STATE 
SOURCE: DWIGHT MASON ROHR
DATELINE: COVINGTON                                LENGTH: Short

COVINGTON OKS WATER SERVICE AGREEMENT

The city and Alleghany County have drafted an agreement that would end a three-year court battle over city water service.

Council in a 4-2 vote approved entering into the pact.

While the details of the agreement, negotiated with Alleghany County representatives, were unavailable, the agreement would settle a dispute over a $75,000 water bill owed by the county.

In a press release, council said, "This agreement will facilitate economic development efforts in the Alleghany Highlands. Recruitment of new industries and businesses by the local agencies will become easier because the long-term cost of two separate water systems has been negated."

In other business, council approved a 1990-91 general fund budget of $10.8 million. It includes $5.8 million for education, $1.8 million for public works and $1.2 million for public safety.

A public hearing on the rate increase drew no opposition or comment from the public. City Manager David Dew said the increase means a city resident would pay $3.50 more per month, beginning Aug. 1. The first reading of the water rate ordinance will be Tuesday.

Councilman Paul Flint said his goodbyes to council Friday night. The meeting also was the last for Councilman Jack Jamison, who spent most of his 16 years in city government as mayor.

by CNB