Millville approves $1.7 million for water improvement project

By Holly Adams

November 19, 2005 | MILLVILLE -- Lack of water pressure will no longer be a problem as a result of a $1.7 million loan for the project that the city council approved Thursday night.

Council members heard from Jason Burningham, from the financial advisor firm Lewis, Young, Robertson and Birmingham, about a community impact board (CIB), which will supply the loan.

Mayor Michael Johnson said this project was to take care of the water pressure as well as water storage. "The city isn't going to shut down without this. It's more for the future."

Burningham said it was better to do the project now, even if it will only benefit in the future. "With construction inflation, it will cost a lot more to do the same project down the road."

Burningham said his fee to the city will be 1 percent of the loan, which will cost the city $17,000.

The council held a public hearing so residents could comment on the project.

Bob Bates said his family has had a lot of problems with the appliances in their home because of the lack of pressure. "It's definitely time to get going with the project."

Ryan Pierson, who was recently elected to the city council, said, "I think it's good for everyone. It will increase storage and pressure."

Residents were informed of the water rate increases that were possible. The base rate could increase 43 percent, which is a maximum of $8. "There definitely will be some increase though," Johnson said.

The council decided to work with J-U-B Engineers on the project. They will allow construction companies to bid and find the one most suitable for the project, Johnson said.

In other business the council canvassed the general election votes.

NW
MS