Proposal to Build a New South Water Plant

City Council Approval

After two public hearings and readings on April 8th and April 29th, the City Council approved a plan to drill two new wells and design/build a new South Water Plant.

Overview of the Proposed Water Plan

City of Huntington Proposes Water Rate Increase to Address Aging Well Fields and Water Plant Needs

The City of Huntington has announced a proposal to increase water rates in response to aging well fields and the need to replace the South Water Plant, built in 1959. This initiative follows a thorough system review to ensure the continued delivery of safe, reliable, and clean water.

Upgrading our water system is essential for residents and businesses to access high-quality water into the future. The proposed rate adjustment will support:

• Drilling new wells.
• Upgrading the South Water Plant at 2290 Engle St.
• Replacing federally mandated lead service lines.

Aging Infrastructure and Water Plant Challenges

Over the years, the city’s water infrastructure has aged, with some components surpassing their expected lifespan. The proposed rate increase will fund these key projects:

• Constructing a new South Water Plant to replace the 1959 facility.
• Drilling new groundwater wells to replace non-functional ones and improve capacity.
• Upgrading water treatment systems using efficient modern technologies.
• Implementing preventive maintenance programs to reduce disruptions.
• Ensuring compliance with public health and environmental standards.

Rate Increase Details

The rate adjustment will be phased in over three years. For an average household using 535 cubic feet (about 4,000 gallons) of water monthly, the average increase will be:

• Year 1: $6.12 per month
• Year 2: An additional $8.25 per month, totaling $14.37 monthly
• Year 3: Another $8.25 per month, totaling $22.62 monthly
• Total Increase: Approximately $0.75 per day, on average, over three years

This structure helps reduce immediate financial impact while supporting long-term water system improvements. We are committed to transparency in the use of funds and to maintaining a sustainable water supply.

Public Hearings

Public hearings were held on April 8th and April 29th at 7:00 p.m. during City Council meetings in the Council Chambers, third floor of the City Building. These meetings provided residents with the opportunity to learn more and voice any concerns or questions.

The City values public input and is committed to working with the community to maintain and enhance our water resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this related to the water situation in Andrews?

No, it is not related. The rate proposal is specifically for City of Huntington needs. If the proposal passes, only Huntington ratepayers will fund these improvements. Andrews' water issues are separate and not funded by the City of Huntington.

Why build a new plant instead of renovating the old one?

1. Renovating the existing South Water Plant was evaluated. However, a Preliminary Engineering Report showed that renovation would be more expensive than building new.
2. Renovation would require shutting down the South Plant, placing an unsustainable burden on the North Plant during peak usage.
3. The South Plant was built in the 1950s using outdated technology. Modern systems are incompatible with the existing structure and infrastructure.