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Commission asks manager to explore options to return city water plant to service
Summary
Vice Mayor Kelly’s resolution directs staff to study options for returning Opelika’s water plant to operation and to report findings; the city currently purchases water from Miami-Dade County and faces increasing wholesale costs.
The City Commission voted Aug. 25 to direct the city manager to explore options to bring the city’s water plant back into operational service.
The resolution, sponsored by Vice Mayor Kelly, authorizes the manager to evaluate feasibility, costs, timelines, and alternatives related to reactivating the city’s former water production capacity. Kelly noted that Opelika currently purchases water from Miami-Dade County and that county rate increases are likely; he said the city should consider whether reactivating its own plant or other options could reduce long-term costs.
Commissioners discussed the complexity and potential expense of reestablishing treatment capacity. Commissioner Santiago said he favored the study and acknowledged the likely significant costs. Kelly said wells and infrastructure were capped and that staff should investigate whether reactivation is technically and financially feasible.
The commission approved the resolution 4-0. Any final decision on reactivating production would return to the commission after staff presents options, cost estimates, and technical feasibility findings.
