Жители Буффало решат на референдуме о продаже водоканала Iowa American Water

BUFFALO, Iowa (KWQC) - Buffalo has reached a deal to sell its water and sewer system to Iowa American Water, but the city council cannot make the decision alone. The final yes or no belongs to voters. Water quality concerns For families in Buffalo, the water coming out of the tap has become a source of worry. From PFAs to hard water and strange colors, city leaders say the system needs major improvements. The city is looking for a way to better the water for residents. The pitch from Iowa American Water Iowa American Water already serves 10 other Iowa communities. “We believe that with our level of expertise as well as ability to invest capital, we think we can help the community of Buffalo solve some of their water and wastewater challenges,” said Brad Nilesen, president of Iowa American Water. “I think we have a history of when we do partner with new communities that we increase reliability as well as improve water quality,” Nilesen said. “This is a partnership at the end of the day between Iowa American Water and potentially the city of Buffalo and its residents. We consider all of our customers to be at the forefront of what we do every single day,” Nilesen said. Rate increases and local control Keeping the water and wastewater systems under city control could mean a larger rate increase to cover infrastructure costs. Voting to sell the system to Iowa American Water could mean a smaller increase, but the town would give up local control. The city said it would host a series of informational meetings ahead of the utility referendum, but subsequent dates have not yet been posted online. If residents decide to switch over, the switch would take place in mid to late 2027, or early 2028 at the latest.