(La Porte, IN) - A candidate for mayor in LaPorte is expressing concerns about annexing the 39 North Conservancy District.

 

Democrat Ron Zimmer said he would do it only if the city has enough money to serve that area, as well as take care of current residents' needs.

 

Right now, Zimmer said he’s not sure if that can be done, considering the amount of money needed for upgrading the water system in the conservancy district. He feels the estimated $10 million cost might leave the city with inadequate resources to take care of civic matters like street repairs.

 

“We’re going to borrow money somewhere down the road to get a water tower and then a couple of years later borrow some more money to get something else.  It’s like a never ending the process and the citizens of La Porte drive around on streets with potholes.  That’s what I’m concerned about,” he said.

 

Recently, the city has obtained signatures from 57% of the property owners requesting to be annexed.

 

The city also reached an agreement with the 39 North Conservancy District to annex in exchange for items of note, like purchasing the existing infrastructure for two million dollars and giving the money to district property owners in the form of credits and utility bills.

 

Currently, there’s a 90 day period for the public to remonstrate against the annexation plans set to close in early December.

 

Zimmer, who has previously ran for mayor on two occasions, is facing Republican incumbent Tom Dermody.