Readers Write: Modest proposal to settle the Willistons’ water woes

The Island Now

believe it is important for the citizens of both Williston Park and East Williston to voice their opinions dealing with this controversy about the new desired water rates charging  East Williston by Williston Park.

Whatever the rate is per thousand gallons, each East Williston homeowners bill is based on consumption. 

So, by changing our usage habits, we can control our total cost. 

For example, when brushing our teeth, do not run the water constantly. If you shower and it takes 10 minutes, make it five. 

If you have an automatic lawn watering system, decrease the time. 

When most of us get a glass of water, we run the water and select the temperature by feeling the temperature. 

In the meantime, water is wasted. 

Just fill the glass with water, go to the fridge and throw in a couple of ice cubes. Why not collect rain water and use it to water your flowers or garden?

Also, East Williston has no businesses. 

We buy gasoline, hardware , food, clothing, jewelry, furniture,etc. from Williston Park stores. 

What if a significant number of East Williston residents decide to buy this stuff from surrounding towns because of this water rate hike fight with Williston Park? 

What impact will this have on the Williston Park economy?

The question for the Williston Park people is how much money do they lose if  East Williston builds its own well? 

How much will their water bill increase to cover the loss of the East Williston money?

For East Williston people:  How much will this well cost? How long to build?  A bond issued? Number of additional people to operate?

Possible solution: an arm wrestle between Tanner and Ehrbar. If Tanner wins, rate is

$3.99 per 1,000 gallons. 

If Ehrbar wins, rate is $4.20 per 1,000 gallons. 

Result: No well in East Williston.

And if the clever people in East Williston conserve water, their water bill will probably be less than what they are now paying.

John Messina

East Williston 

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