The Creechville dilemma

In 1909, J.S. Creech opened his sawmill operation at a 12-man camp on Elbow Lake near Maple Hill, during a time that logging was bringing new local jobs to the pioneer settlers. His 1,300 acre parcel along the Elbow River was the source of his timber. Within a few years Creech hired only locals for his logging operations.
Today, 99 years later, his descendants Leroy and Barbara Creech are opposing annexation of Creechville by the city of Grand Marais. "We can't afford to live here now," Leroy Creech told WTIP reporter Barbara Jean Meyers in an interview. "When they charge us more, how will we afford that? ... We don't need the water and sewer."
The county has declined to support the annexation by the city after hearing concerns from Creechville residents. Commissioner Bob Fenwick says it is a tough choice; although property values will go up tax increases will in some instances more than double, not including the new sewer and water assessments.
There are no villains in this story. The city has been working toward the annexation project for years now at the request of some Creechville residents. They did go through a public process and did get approval for the project. However, property owners like Creech didn't realize that everyone would be required to sign on, not only those who wanted city water and sewer.
It's hard for True to imagine what it would be like for a pioneer family to be driven out of their century-old home because they can't afford to pay for amenities that they don't need.
Mayor Larsen told WTIP in an interview that the project will benefit all sewer and water users by spreading out the cost, and that the city is applying for grants to help those who need assistance. The grants could be jeopardized if the project is held up.
Here is True's idea: Don't look now but in the last 20 years or so onsite wastewater treatment technology has skyrocketed. Yes, the city ought to provide sewer and water for those who want it, but it also ought to allow new onsite cluster system technology as an option for those who can't afford to buy in. The townships of Tofte and Lutsen are looking at cluster systems with small waste package plants. Grand Marais ought to look to 21st century options for those who can't afford city taxes, sewer and water. Honor your elders and your pioneers, folks!
True