Kelley Road residents are breathing a sigh of relief this week. The pond that provides the water for the county’s dry hydrant is being filled.

The ongoing drought caused the pond to dry up but the county and landowners were at odds as to who was responsible for cleaning the silt out of the pond and pumping water from a nearby well to fill the pond.

Friends and neighbors took matters into their own hands. Silt was removed from the pond using donated heavy equipment and labor. The county did its share as well. Crews began jetting the well on Monday, and, as of press time, the water level was almost to the pipe which feeds the hydrant.

“Through anonymous donations, the dry hydrant was dug out and repaired,” said Dennis Balusek, owner. “Marina and I thank everyone involved in making this dream come true.”

“Kelley Road is now a safer place for fire protection,” Marina said.