Lake Como, N.J., takes bold steps towards resolving water utility concerns

(UI) — In a recent town council session, Mayor Kevin Higgins of Lake Como took strides to address the ongoing challenges surrounding the town's water and sewer utilities, TAPinto reported. The agenda highlighted discussions on engaging engineering services to explore potential options, marking a significant shift in the town's approach to its infrastructure issues.

Speaking to TAPinto, Mayor Higgins expressed the town's proactive stance: "We're actively exploring ways to create a more financially sustainable environment for Lake Como residents. If we succeed, it could mean substantial savings on water and sewer bills for everyone."

The roots of this issue extend back to the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, when Lake Como faced a dire water infrastructure crisis. Residents grappled with discolored and brackish water flowing into their homes, prompting urgent action. The town weighed the choice between upgrading the system or selling the utilities to a public entity like New Jersey American Water.

Despite a less-than-ideal offer from New Jersey American Water, Lake Como invested millions in upgrading its water system to address the immediate crisis. However, this decision led to increased water costs for residents to repay the loans taken out for the project.

Lake Como explored alternative water sources, including potential collaboration with the Southern Monmouth Utility Authority through Wall Township. Yet, logistical challenges and unforeseen expenses hindered progress, prompting a reevaluation of selling the water system.

A significant development since the initial discussions is the enactment of the Water Infrastructure Protection Act, allowing water companies to acquire public water systems at a higher valuation. Consequently, Lake Como is now considering assessing the value of its water and sewer utilities as a precursor to a potential sale.

Mayor Higgins emphasized the importance of appointing CME as a special projects engineer, signaling the start of the evaluation process, according to TAPinto. The resolution passed during the council meeting authorizes CME's services to assess and evaluate the town's water and sewer utilities for potential transfer to a public water entity.

This demonstrates the town's commitment to tackling longstanding infrastructure challenges and easing the financial burden on its residents. With the possibility of divesting water and sewer utilities on the horizon, Lake Como enters a new phase in its efforts to secure sustainable and cost-effective water services for its community.

This story was originally reported by TAPinto.

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