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Serious Concerns Regarding The Planned Activation Of The New Water Tower
Author: McKenna Gregg

Serious Concerns Regarding the Planned Activation of the New Water Tower

Dear Mayor Rauser and Esteemed Council Members,

I am writing to formally express serious concerns regarding the planned activation of the new water tower and associated system changes in Townsend.

Based on publicly shared discussions, including the outlined “Water Pressure Letter,” it is evident that the City is aware of significant risks associated with increased water pressure. However, the current approach places the burden of preparation, cost, and risk mitigation almost entirely on residents, many of whom have not received sufficient notice, guidance, or support.

The guidance being proposed to residents includes:

Locating water shut-off valves and curb boxes

* Checking water pressure before and after system activation

* Scheduling plumbing inspections

* Installing or upgrading pressure-reducing valves

* Monitoring for leaks and system failures

* Responding to potential damage such as water hammer or pipe failure

These are not minor or optional precautions. They indicate a substantial system-wide impact that could affect nearly every property connected to the municipal water system.

Despite this, residents have not been adequately informed in advance, nor has there been a clear, proactive effort to ensure that all households, especially those on fixed incomes, can safely comply with these requirements.

Key Concerns:

Insufficient Public Notice and Transparency:

Residents should have been informed well in advance of any infrastructure change that could directly impact private plumbing systems and household expenses.

Financial Burden on Residents:

The cost of inspections, pressure-reducing valves, plumbing upgrades, and potential repairs may be significant. For seniors and others on fixed incomes, these costs are not easily absorbed.

System-Wide Risk Acknowledgment:

While statements have been made suggesting that not all homes are at risk, it has also been acknowledged that all properties connected to the system may be affected. This contradiction requires clarification and accountability.

Lack of Subject Matter Expertise:

There is no clear evidence that independent engineering or plumbing experts have been publicly engaged to assess risk, provide guidance, or validate the City’s approach. Proceeding without transparent expert consultation raises concerns about negligence in duty.

Responsibility of the City:

If this project introduces new risks or required upgrades to private property, the City must share responsibility for the consequences, not transfer it entirely to residents.

Requested Actions:

* Delay activation of the new water system until adequate public outreach and preparation time have been provided

* Provide clear, written, and accessible communication to all residents explaining risks and required actions

* Offer financial assistance, rebates, or compensation to residents required to make plumbing upgrades

* Engage and publicly identify qualified subject matter experts to evaluate and guide this transition

* Direct Public Works to assist residents in locating curb stops and shut-off valves where needed

* Hold a public forum to address citizen concerns and answer questions transparently

This situation is not simply an infrastructure upgrade; it is a change that directly impacts the safety, finances, and well-being of Townsend residents. The City has a responsibility to act with diligence, transparency, and fairness.

Failure to do so may constitute a neglect of duty to the citizens you serve.

I urge the Mayor and Council to take immediate action to address these concerns before proceeding further.

McKenna Gregg

Townsend