A controversy over a construction project at an EPCOR Water facility spilled into the council chambers Feb. 20, as several neighbors used the “call to the public” segment of the agenda to express their displeasure with the look of a large water tank.

EPCOR has been working for some time on a project at its water tank on Fountain Hills Boulevard near the intersection of Kingstree Boulevard. The project has included the construction of a wall around the tank, as well as the removal of numerous mature eucalyptus trees that screened the tank from residents living across Emerald Wash, west and north of the tank site.

The removal of the trees stunned the residents by opening up the view to the large, light-colored tank.

Barbara Trebelhorn, who lives on Palomino Boulevard above the tank site, asked the council to have EPCOR restore the tree line and/or paint the tank to blend with the environment.

“It is reasonable to expect EPCOR to be a good neighbor,” Trebelhorn said.

Others said they were told by contactors on the site that the landscaping was completed, leaving the site highly visible.

Another resident said the tank should be painted and EPCOR should involve residents in the selection of the color. He said EPCOR has been unresponsive to their pleas to date, however, neighbors said they have been encouraged by the response of town staff to their concerns.

Town Manager Grady Miller said he has had discussion with EPCOR staff and they have indicated they want to be a good neighbor and he is confident there will be a resolution to the issue.