Clean and adequate drinking water is vital to our community’s health. As Wake County’s population doubles to a projected 1.5 million by 2025, Raleigh’s water supply may not be sufficient if current growth, consumption rates and droughts continue. Growth must be balanced by cost-effective management choices. Planning for future water needs includes both expanding water supplies and reducing water demand. New water supplies should be cost-shared between current and future utility customers.
We the undersigned respectfully request that the Raleigh City Council:
1. Create a Water Stewardship Advisory Board (made up of stakeholders and water experts) to advise the Council on ways to ensure cost-effective, safe and plentiful long-term water supplies.
2. Re-assess current local water capacity using historical drought as a benchmark.
3. Implement cost-effective measures for regional water management, including conservation.
4. Set fair water and sewer fees that cover the costs of new development.
5. Promote transparency in utility system planning and funding.
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