Annexation plans should be natural

At its best, annexation is a natural extension of a city's growth. In other words, after several homes or businesses have been built and occupied in an area adjacent to the city, it becomes logical to bring that neighborhood within the city's boundaries.

During the McCook City Council's discussion Tuesday night, it appears members were mindful of the need not to overstep their bounds, but to consider only the most obvious choices for annexation.

Out of a number of possibilities, the council selected only the following four areas for annexation consideration.

The areas are:

Highlands Subdivision -- This development, on McCook's western edge, features some of the community's finest homes. Started in the early 1990s, the residential area adjoining the golf course now has seven homes, with room for more on spacious lots.

Henton Addition -- Another outstanding group of homes, the Henton Addition sits west of the 2000 to 2200 blocks of West Third Street. Developed in the final years of the 20th Century, the addition has two dozen quality homes with lots available for more residential structures.

West Q to T, Between North U.S. Highway 83 and 10th -- Anchored on the southwest by Curly Olney's Inc., this sloping tract has development potential. With access to sewer, water and paving district improvements, the way could be cleared for residential building in the future.

Barnett Park -- This is a natural. Next to the Republican River in south McCook, the park is owned by the city and should be within the city's boundaries. "It's been overlooked. We should have annexed the park years ago," Mayor Jerda Garey said.

Before annexation actually takes place, the council's proposals must go to the McCook City Planning Commission. It will be the planning board's responsibility to conduct a public hearing, which will be done five weeks from today -- on Monday, Oct. 13, at 5:15 p.m. At that time, those for and against the annexation of the four proposed areas will have the opportunity to say why they feel as they do.

It's an important process. In order to accommodate growth, towns and cities must adjust their boundaries. But it has to be done with deliberation so the needs and desires of both the city and annexed areas can be fully considered.

While the council goes forward with the four proposed areas, members also may want to reconsider their decision not to include the Work Ethic Camp in the annexation plans. Water and sewer lines have already been extended to the camp. Fire and police protection should also be extended. The camp is part of McCook, and should be included within the city's boundaries.