To the editor:

The City Council of the City of Prairie City is fully aware of their obligations and water right limitations with regard to its proposed water system improvement project. We have weighed the options, considered the risks of each option and believe we have made the right decision.

It is important to remember that our first priority is to comply with the Violation and Administrative Order issued by the Department of Human Services, and that is to “take the necessary action to ensure that all system users receive drinking water that consistently meets all applicable state and federal drinking water laws and rules.” Secondary to that, and not mandated by the state, is to augment the amount of water available for municipal use. There are some factors such as water loss investigations, infiltration gallery improvements and aquifier storage and recovery that we do plan to investigate to see if we can increase our available water supply and save money.

The City has been under order to correct its drinking water violations since 1999. We have been given numerous extensions to achieve compliance; however, we will no longer be allowed to ignore the order and will be imposed civil penalties in the amount of $200 per day beginning December 1, 2008 if we fail to meet the November 30, 2008 compliance deadline.

When considering that funding for a slow sand filtration system is already approved, the environmental work has been done, the system design has been completed and paid for, and that most importantly, we can meet the November deadline, we have concluded that moving forward with the project is in the City’s best interest. We would also like to stress that these improvements will not cost three million dollars as stated by others. After the slow sand filtration system is on the line, and if we need to drill another well, we anticipate total costs to be in the $2,000,000 to $2,200,000 range.

On the other hand, funding is not approved for the development of the wells. We have been advised that to pursue funding, whether it be grants or low interest loans, could take another one to three years. We do not, and never did have, the luxury of continuing to put off these water system improvements. We cannot correct past mistakes, nor do we care to dwell on them or place blame. This Council does, however, plan to stand by their decision and fulfill their obligation to provide safe drinking water to its citizens without further delay.

Mayor Stan Horrell and the City Council

City of Prairie City