East Canton explores independent water supply amid rising costs

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the upcoming water tower project and the potential for establishing an independent water supply for East Canton. The project is set to commence soon, with preliminary discussions indicating that costs may be lower than initially estimated. However, concerns were raised about the impact of rising water bills on residents, especially given the recent increases.

Terry Daley, president of the East Canton Rotary, expressed the organization's interest in spearheading efforts to explore independent water supply options, including the feasibility of drilling test wells. He emphasized the need for community support and collaboration with the village government to address the water supply challenges. Daley noted that previous attempts to establish a local water system faced significant hurdles, including high costs and regulatory requirements for land use.

Council members echoed these sentiments, recalling past efforts that were thwarted by financial constraints and the difficulty of finding suitable land for water treatment facilities. The discussion highlighted the historical context of East Canton’s water supply, including previous reliance on wells that were abandoned due to quality issues.

The council also addressed the ongoing storm sewer situation, which has hindered development in the area. Residents have been slow to participate in programs aimed at reducing stormwater runoff, complicating efforts to improve sewer capacity. Council members noted that only a small number of residents have allowed inspections of their properties, which is crucial for identifying and mitigating issues contributing to sewer overload.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to exploring solutions for both water supply and storm sewer challenges, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and support in moving forward with these critical projects.