Vote Not Necessary For Water Plant Work

The city won’t have to seek voter approval to spend $2.4 million to upgrade its two water treatments plants, a judge ruled this week.

Environmental officials have ordered the city to make improvements at its plants that don’t meet new water quality standards. If the work is not done, the city faces fines and other penalties from the Idaho Division of Environmental Quality.

Instead of asking voters to approve a multimillion-dollar bond, the city sought judicial confirmation. The process allows a judge to determine if the improvements are necessary and give the city permission to spend tax dollars.

Work on the water treatment plants will be paid for by a $2-$3 increase in water rates. Work on the plants is scheduled to begin next spring. , DataTimes