WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) – On Tuesday night, the Wausau Water Works Commission met to discuss the next steps in replacing the city’s lead service lines.
Over the previous six months, the Commission has been examining options and gathering information about the process, and the potential taxpayer cost has been a source of concern for certain members. During the meeting, Alderperson Rasmussen asked, “Are we going to expect cost increases solely based on volume?” I mean, is there any cost containment?”
The presenters were unable to provide an exact response, only noting, “It’s a performance-based structure…our compensation will be tied to a fixed price, fixed schedule, and other fixed metrics.”
Rasmussen continued by saying, “This effort cannot fall on the backs of the ratepayers. We are already looking at a large rate increase of 65% and people are wildly angry about that.”
The state of Wisconsin is receiving $400 million to replace lines in cities all over the state such as Milwaukee and Wausau. The current estimates say it will cost around $10,000 per home to complete the work.
There was no action taken during the meeting, and further discussion on the subject is planned to continue over the coming the weeks.
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