NEZ PERCE, Idaho — The City of Lewiston is hoping voters will pass a multi-million dollar bond to repair and upgrade the city’s underground water pipes.
On March 10, the City of Lewiston announced a proposed $25 million bond for water, stormwater and wastewater infrastructure upgrades.
If approved, the bond would fund repairs to the city’s underground water pipes, many of which have been in use since WWI.
“Our community depends on underground pipes that work – every day, without a second thought,” said Mayor Dan Johnson. “Much of this infrastructure has served us well for over 100 years, however, making proactive investments now can help avoid costly emergency repairs in the future.”
The city said it plans to use existing budgeted revenues to repay the bond and does not expect an additional charge on taxes or utilities to be necessary.
“If the revenues are not sufficient to make future bond payments, the estimated maximum tax impact of a $25,000,000, 30-year bond is $36.15 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value per year (before any homeowner exemptions),” the city’s announcement reads.
If voters do not approve the bond the city said it would have to explore alternative options for the needed pipe maintenance, which could lead to increased costs and prolonged construction.
The proposal will be up for a vote on May 20.
The first public open house to discuss this proposal with city officials will take place on March 19 at the Lewiston City Library from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
You can read the city’s full announcement here.
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