Is There Enough Water for More People? There is a finite amount of water in the North Florence Dunal Aquifer.  According to the City’s Water Facilities Plan, the aquifer is “probably sufficient to meet expected water supply demands.”  The City can’t rely on Heceta Water District in the future because
of the restrictions imposed by the County.  According to documents filed this month with Oregon Water Resources Dept., adding 5 new wells only provide enough water for existing residents.

How Much Will It Cost?  The City’s Water Facilities Plan says it will cost us over $11.4 million (net present worth) to produce enough water for more development. The report shows that the City would need 300 acres of land for a total of 14 wells, with an expected $1.1 million annual cost for maintenance.

How Will This Effect Me?  The City hasn’t come up with exact figures on how much this will cost current residents, but we can make a good guess based on past experience. The new sewage treatment plant cost us about $12 million.  The new well field will cost about the same, so it is likely you could see the same increase in your water bill as you have in the last couple of years. 
The City will be discussing just where the new well field will be located.  If the City’s decisions are wrong, then we could be facing water use restrictions (rationing) and even higher water rates.  We won’t get to vote on any of  this - it will all be decided by the City Council. 

What Can I Do?  Attend the Work Session.  Talk or write to our City Councilors.  Citizen participation is the key to ensuring good decisions by our City Council.

Link to:  City Council address and phone numbers

Also see:  Issues: City Water Supply and Questions Submitted to City after Worksession and City's Answers to CFF Questions