Denver Siding Experiences Rate Shock

The Valley Voice - March 10, 2010 - Facing a operating deficit of over $8000, residents of Denver Siding agreed to a water rate increase. The move will raise rates from $250/year to $400. Even this won't completely solve the problem; that would take an increase in rates to around $540.

There are many problems this small water system is facing, aside from their money woes. The system doesn't meet current standards and is one of many systems on a Boil Water Advisory for years. They have about $50,000 in their reserve fund, but that can't be used for operating costs. Upgrades to the system, where that money could be used, might cost $300,000 or more.

This leaves Denver Siding residents considering the prospect of asking to join the Village of New Denver so they can connect to their water system. This would mean an increase in property taxes, because the rates in the Village are higher than in Denver Siding. Some residents are considering drilling their own wells, believing that the wells would achieve payback in 20 years. Of course, if you're running your own private system, you shoulder all the costs, deal with all the breakdowns and need to worry about where the water table is and how it might be affecting your water supply. And if the area joins with New Denver anyway..... No easy solutions here.

Not a happy situation.