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Paris: Big bonds in town

Paris, Texas

Repairing water and sewer lines in Paris would cost an estimated $45 million - the kind of money available only through bonds.

City officials in Paris have estimated the price of fixing the town's crumbling water and sewer lines would cost about $45 million. Voters will decide on May 11 whether to approve the purchase of bonds to fund the project.

Paris has 238 miles of water lines and 196 miles of sewer lines, according to city figures. The city also operates 174 miles of streets, under which most of those water and sewer lines lie.

Those who support the bonds as a means to pay for the work say that utility customers would not see a rate increase if the bonds were used.

By law, such projects must be competitively and public bid upon. The city has contracted with Longview-based KSA Engineers to prepare a capital improvements plan.

There will also be one contested city council race on the ballot. Danny Booth and Matt Frierson will compete for Place 5. Richard Grossnickle is running unopposed for Place 4, while A.J. Hashmi is running unopposed for Place 7.

There are no county-level offices on the ballot for Lamar County.

Mark Haslett has served at KETR since 2013. Since then, the station's news operation has enjoyed an increase in listener engagement and audience metrics, as well recognition in the Texas AP Broadcasters awards.