To the editor:

As a lifelong resident of the Salem area, I have been concerned and upset with our city’s policy regarding water and sewer service for those who reside outside our city.

I’ve resided in Salem (city or Perry Township) my entire life except for 10 years near the intersection of Slater and Tower roads. When we moved back to Salem we chose to reside on N. Union just north of the city limits, residing there nearly 50 years.

I’m grateful for having city water and sewer service, and didn’t mind the 50 percent rate increase required to receive our service. What disturbs me is this annexation policy. Myself, and I believe those Beechwood Road residents, chose to reside in the township and outside city limits because they preferred being governed by Perry Township.

This entire scenario where one single property becomes contingent to the city of Salem, and then forces another 32 properties to be annexed thru a “domino effect” is upsetting to me, and as I suspect, to many other Pery Township residents as well as those on Beechwood.

I do have a possible solution for Ms. Butcher and the other 32 Beechwood residents. If permitted, she could drill a well and install a septic system. The cost of this to be equally shared by all the affected residents, thereby halting the mass annexation.

Hugh L. Kells, Jr.,

Salem