Number
090596
Version
SUBSTITUTE 1
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. KOVAC, DUDZIK, WADE AND DAVIS
Title
Substitute resolution expressing support for the City of Milwaukee’s continuing ownership and operation of the Water Works.
Analysis
This resolution expresses support for the City of Milwaukee’s continued ownership and operation of the Milwaukee Water Works as a public entity, and the City’s intent that this water utility will not be privatized in any manner, nor its operations leased to any private entity either through a concession or management lease.
Body
Whereas, Water is viewed in the world today as a scarce natural resource under increasing pressure for use and consumption prompting thoughtful water policy debate; and
Whereas, Water resources are widely held to be a public trust to be managed by the public sector for the common good of the public at large; and
Whereas, Water resources are protected under the Public Trust Doctrine of the Wisconsin State Constitution which has been broadened by legal action, legislation and administration to include protection of the public’s rights to water quality and quantity; and
Whereas, The Milwaukee Water Works provides safe drinking water to over 850,000 residents in the region in full compliance with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources; and
Whereas, The Milwaukee Water Works goes beyond the letter-of-the-law to protect the public by testing for contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals, not currently regulated; and
Whereas, Average household costs for drinking water provided by the Milwaukee Water Works are currently the 4th lowest among the 50 largest U.S. cities, and are projected to be the 13th lowest among the same cities (assuming these cities do not increase water rates) even if the utility’s current rate increase of 28% is granted by the Public Service Commission; and
Whereas, The Milwaukee Water ...
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