CDBG funds eyed for Hurdlow water line improvements
4:56 p.m. Feb. 11, 2026
DUANE CROSS
MCO Publisher•Editor
At the Tuesday, Feb. 10, meeting of the Metro Moore Utility Department board, engineer Bryant Griffin provided updates on three infrastructure and property matters: a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application, a property easement adjustment, and negotiations to purchase land for a new water plant behind the current building on Hwy. 55.
CDBG Likely Tied to Line Replacement
Griffin said Moore County, which is rarely funded under CDBG due to income thresholds, may receive roughly $600,000 to $700,000 if a 2026 application is approved. Rather than attempting to extend approximately 12 miles of new rural ARPA-funded water lines, he advised focusing the application on replacing aging lines in the Hurdlow community in the southern part of the county, where water loss exceeds 40%.
He noted that high water loss and the presence of low- to moderate-income households make the replacement project a stronger candidate for funding. Applications are due in April, with award decisions expected near the end of the year.
• MUD to keep residential sewer rates as-is
Easement Discovery Reshapes Property Layout
Griffin reported that a survey confirmed a 20-foot easement running across lots near a planned utility extension along Hwy. 82. Because structures cannot be built within an easement, property owner Gary Preston agreed to shift a planned 30-by-30-foot pump station back 20 feet, resolving potential conflicts and preserving utility access.
The surveyor is expected to coordinate directly with Preston on the final layout.
Land Purchase Negotiations Advance
Board discussions also addressed the acquisition of property from Alex Richman, Chief Operating Officer of Cumberland Springs Land Company, for a new water plant. An earlier $17,000 offer for 0.79 acres increased to $25,000 after the usable area was recalculated at roughly 1.2 acres.
According to Griffin, Richman has requested to use her own attorney and surveyor.
If finalized, the purchase would resolve outstanding lagoon-related concerns and secure the land needed for operations improvements.
Board members expressed optimism that the agreement could satisfy all parties if completed.
