Sewer and power systems are equally robust.“We’ve spent several million dollars over the last four years redoing almost all of the sewer collection system,” Robert says. “So as far as either industrial or residential expansion around Osage City, we feel like we’re in a pretty good position.” He adds that Osage city has the ability to generate its full load of power. “It makes our electric rates very competitive for an industrial customer, and our electrical service much more predictable. It’s pretty unique for an industrial customer to have one point of contact, that includes water, sewer, gas, electric, waste collection provided by the city of Osage City.” Broadband expansion is also nearly complete. “We will have fiber in all quadrants of the county by the end of 2026,” Mendoza confirms.“There are a couple of pockets that are more rural that will bleed into 2027, but the majority of our county will be covered.” AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE On the list of exciting new ventures for Osage line that runs directly through Osage County. “Our goal is to build a facility where we can move longhaul freight by rail and offload commodities to get them to businesses in the surrounding region,” she suggests. The county is also ensuring that the foundation is in place for future development. “We’ve been blessed that most of our communities have had a vision for investing in water and sewer infrastructure,” says Mendoza. “I have come to learn how critical that is to growth. We do have our two lakes, and that is a point of differentiation.” Robert elaborates on how local water infrastructure supports regional needs.“Osage City has almost 40 percent unutilized capacity,” he explains. “We feel like, as far as treated water and distribution, we’re in great shape. In this end of the county, there are other water suppliers as well, but by Osage City taking that lead, we’re able to provide water at a really competitive rate by basically consolidating the needs of several communities.” 170 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11
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