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Council warned of aging water pipes; staff to commission condition study and consider borrowing
Summary
Staff told council the city faces a multiyear water‑pipe replacement backlog and recommended commissioning an engineering study to assess pipe materials and condition before deciding whether to accelerate replacement through bonds or phased work.
Multiple council members and staff focused the budget discussion on the city’s water‑system capital backlog, calling for a professional condition assessment before approving large debt. Ken said many mains date from the 1970s and older materials (cast iron, concrete, PVC) may require sequential replacement rather than a single‑year program.
Heidi outlined options including a phased five‑year replacement plan and potential water‑revenue bonds if rates and refinancing conditions are favorable. "Instead of running off and borrowing $5,000,000, we believe we should do an investigation with a qualified engineering firm," Ken said. Council members expressed concern about the risk of major breaks if replacement is delayed and asked staff to return with a prioritized plan and schedule for borrowing if needed.
