The headline tells it all! " Ilion ok's agreement for water project", not the People, but 5 elected officials. Agreed after bonding for millions of dollars and with the continued non referendum or vote by the people. Things look and are conducted much differently by Town of Schuyler, Town of Frankfort/ Herkimer and others. More transparent and with greater survey and involvement of it's people, why is Ilion not doing the same?
Also telling is in the time estimated to start and finish projects 2021. It appears the Village is preparing for eventual agreement with the MVWA and is doing preliminary work prior which is being demanded by the Authority and perhaps the DOH, we just don't know.
Over 300 lead services line is approximately 10% of the Total lines served by the current system. Does this represent ALL the lead services, and what method is being chosen by the VB to determine which get replaced? These two projects represent close to ten million in bonding already payable, when and how much of a water rate will be required this year, with many more to follow?
Full steam ahead, I agree, but are our wallets ready? The VB also has to work just as diligently and swiftly on its general budget and other costs savings and improvements. Consolidation and shared services must be full steam ahead as well. Spending for Police and fire services and DPW, must show relief for the property taxpayers. The electric utility if not better managed and maintained is going to result in major rate increases as seen with water.
Elected officials as the chosen Engineers of this journey, must not be just "full Throttle" but be aware and cognizant of potential dangers and obstacles ahead. Either way it appears to be a very bumpy expensive ride ahead for residents.
David Murray
13 Grove St
Ilion
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