EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso Water is weighing four budget scenarios for its next fiscal year, and the utility is asking residents to help shape the decision.
El Paso Water held a community meeting to gather public input on four proposals labeled high risk, lean, accelerated, and strategic.
Under the accelerated option, El Paso Water would make its largest capital investment, fast-tracking projects. The high-risk option would make the lowest capital investment, delaying projects, putting $31 million in grants at risk, and cutting 300 positions.
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Community members who attended the meeting were able to speak with engineers and project managers. El Paso Water also provided advice on ways customers can lower their monthly bill.
The meeting also introduced a proposed senior discounted rate program and went over their app that lets you track water waste in your home.
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I spoke to two residents who are in favor of the accelerated budget scenario.
“To me, it’s a no-brainer: water is the most important resource after air; it’s imperative that we have a healthy water infrastructure. I definitely support the accelerated platform investment,” said Carlos Villalobos.
“It’s a love-hate because we can go the conservative route, but the growth won’t happen; we are going to need to spend to make. If there is no growth, how are we going to be able to cover all the costs?” said Danny Sander.
The president of El Paso Water, John Balliew talked to us about the usage of funds.
“We are in a period of time where we are trying to catch up and make sure we are getting those projects put in that they should have been put in years ago.”
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