Waukesha Freeman
Nov 4, 2017
Opinion/Letter to the Editor
To the editor:
On Monday, October 30th, we made history. After decades of research and due diligence, a partnership was formed between Waukesha and Milwaukee. That’s right: between Waukesha and Milwaukee. We reached a 40-year agreement with automatic 10-year renewals that will provide city of Waukesha residents with a long-term, sustainable supply of high-quality water. This agreement is the largest of its kind in the history of southeastern Wisconsin — and a true milestone for regional cooperation.
As mayor, it is my duty to protect our residents and our employers from unnecessary costs. We reached an agreement with Milwaukee that saves $40 million in construction costs, compared to Oak Creek. In addition, the wholesale rates we will pay for water will be significantly lower. For the average residential family, this means future water rates will be $200 lower per year than they would have been otherwise. This will keep over $4 million in our local economy every year.That is something that could not be overlooked.
Milwaukee will not set the water rates and Milwaukee cannot impose additional terms on the sale of water. Rather, the Public Service Commission, a state agency, sets the rates.
Waukesha will continue its oversight of our award-winning water utility.
As always, it is important to me that we address the questions and concerns of Waukesha residents. Please watch your mail and this newspaper for information regarding upcoming open houses and presentations taking place Nov. 28, 29 and 30. We want to hear from the residents of Waukesha and answer questions they may have.
In the meantime, let’s celebrate this historic milestone and look to the future with significant relief — and great anticipation.
Shawn Reilly
Waukesha Mayor