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River Heights increases residents' water bills By
Anna Brunson RIVER HEIGHTS -- Water will cost a bit more in River Heights after the City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to pass a 6 percent franchise fee on to the public. Residents will now have to pay about 50 cents more for their water, which will make monthly bills almost exactly $10. The hike was in response to a franchise fee Logan recently adopted. Because River Heights contracts water services from Logan, the franchise fee is applicable. City recorder Sheila Lind says the franchise fee will be itemized on the water bill, so payers will see a base rate of $8.95, 50 cents in city overage, plus the additional franchise fee. During the meeting, the council also formed a subcommittee to explore solutions for storm water runoff problems in the area around the elementary school. "As development continues in that area, the problem is going to get worse, not better," said Councilman Noel Cooley. "I suggest we take the time to solve the entire problem, not just piece by piece." Until now the undeveloped land near Spring Creek has been effective at absorbing water and removing contaminants. As more roads and driveways are built in the area above it, however, dams are created that stop the natural flow of rain and snow melt. Flooding then becomes a common problem. Councilman Mike Jablonski supports the effort so River Heights can work to comply with Phase 2 of the EPA's storm water drainage requirements, which went into effect in November 1999. "Because we are a smaller community, the requirement applies to us and we have only a three-year deadline to comply," Jablonski said. Instead of measuring point pollution, the EPA plans to look at the efficiency of management practices. "I think if we start now, the project can be inexpensive," Cooley said. The committee, consisting of Jablonski, the irrigation company, the city engineer and a few local landowners, will meet throughout the month to explore solutions. Options may include creating drainage waterways or preserving open land to absorb water. They hope to have a general plan of action by Oct. 30.
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