(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha has taken another step toward the construction of a new water treatment plant.

Following an executive session, the City Commission voted this week to exercise an option to purchase more than 26 acres of land near the old locker plant north of Hiawatha from the Koenig trust for the construction of the plant.  

City Administrator Mike Nichols tells MSC News the property is being purchased for a total cost of $76,000.   He says the city expects to close on the property by the end of March.

The city is also seeking additional property for the plant.   Last March, the Commission voted to start condemnation proceedings on the old locker plant property which adjoins the Koenig tract after trying to negotiate an option to purchase the 6 ½ acres to no avail.    

The city plans to construct a treatment plant to address the ongoing problem of high nitrate levels in the city’s water supply system.  The plant is currently in the design phase.