LACIE SILVA
Editor
Bill Jochym addressed the Mayor and Alderman board of Jasper regarding ongoing water line issues along Highway 41. Jochym had previously brought the issue to the Marion County Commissioner’s board, who informed him that resolving the problem would fall under Jasper’s jurisdiction.
Mayor Jason Turner explained to Jochym that running a water line along Highway 41 is currently not feasible due to the road’s instability, including “sliding” and road cave-ins. Mayor Turner also mentioned that the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will not approve the necessary permits for the project under these conditions. Despite these challenges, Mayor Turner reassured Jochym that the city is still seeking funding for the project and confirmed that Jasper would handle the installation once conditions allowed. He promised to follow up with Jochym once he had more information.
Judge Raines added that a separate construction project is ongoing at the top of the mountain, which could delay progress for a few years, echoing Mayor Turner’s timeline.
Although no vote was taken or resolution reached during the meeting, Jochym expressed his gratitude to the board for the updated information.
