Cheyenne seeks new water customers amid curtailment concerns and infrastructure delays

During a recent work session on April 18, 2025, the Cheyenne City Council engaged in critical discussions regarding the fiscal year 2026 budget for the Board of Public Utilities (BOPU). The meeting highlighted significant challenges and strategies related to water and sewer services in the city, reflecting broader concerns about resource management and infrastructure sustainability.

A key focus of the meeting was the city's water supply and the implications of potential curtailments due to ongoing drought conditions. Council members expressed cautious optimism about securing new customers to bolster water revenue, particularly in light of a projected shortfall of $3.7 million for water services and $2.8 million for sewer services in the upcoming fiscal year. The discussions underscored the delicate balance between promoting water conservation and maintaining adequate revenue streams to support essential infrastructure repairs and upgrades.

The council noted that while water usage has decreased significantly—down to an average of 8.6 million gallons per day from 13 million in 1999—this trend poses financial challenges. The city relies heavily on water sales to fund operational costs, debt repayment, and capital projects, primarily focused on maintaining existing systems rather than expanding services. The council emphasized the need to identify large-scale customers, akin to the former HollyFrontier facility, which could substantially increase revenue.

In addition to water supply issues, the council addressed the aging sewer infrastructure, with plans to rehabilitate approximately 3.5 miles of sewer lines annually. The discussion revealed that the city is currently behind on necessary sewer repairs, raising concerns about the reliability of the system amid increasing water main breaks.

The meeting also touched on the broader context of water management in the region, particularly in relation to the Colorado River Compact. Council members discussed the implications of potential curtailments on water rights and the challenges faced by upper basin states like Wyoming, which must navigate complex agreements while managing limited resources.

In conclusion, the Cheyenne City Council's discussions during the work session highlighted the pressing need for strategic planning in water and sewer management. As the city grapples with declining water sales and aging infrastructure, the council's efforts to attract new customers and secure funding for essential repairs will be crucial in ensuring the sustainability of Cheyenne's water and sewer services in the years to come. The council plans to continue exploring options for revenue enhancement and infrastructure improvements as they move forward with the budget process.