Water Meter Crisis Sparks Urgent Call for Action

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the urgent need to replace outdated water meters across the island, highlighting a significant backlog from previous administrations. The last comprehensive meter replacement occurred in 2007, leaving many meters in disrepair and necessitating a new strategy to address the issue.

The board acknowledged the challenge of funding the estimated $6 million required for the replacements. A proposal was put forth to implement a $20 quarterly fee to help finance the project. However, concerns were raised about the fairness of this fee, particularly for residents whose total water bills are already around $20. Officials debated the merits of a hybrid funding approach, suggesting a combination of fees and tax adjustments to alleviate the financial burden on residents.

A key point of contention was ensuring that any collected fees would be strictly allocated for water meter replacements, with board members expressing a strong desire for transparency and accountability in the use of these funds. The discussion also touched on the logistics of meter replacement, with assurances that supply chain issues have been resolved, allowing for a phased installation over the next year.

The meeting underscored the importance of establishing a reserve fund to ensure future meter replacements are financially sustainable, preventing the board from facing similar challenges in the years to come. As the board moves forward, they aim to create a clear plan that addresses both immediate needs and long-term financial stability for the water system.