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Letters to the EditorsImprovements in the works for Inverness water system© St. Petersburg Times published February 6, 2003 Editor: Re: For clearer water, replace the pipes, Friday, Citrus Times: This is sent to provide information with respect to the concerns expressed in two recent letters that were sent for local publication. The Inverness water system is not large, with only 3,900 customers. As a small operation that is part of this community, we work to keep rates affordable and have done so while experiencing constant cost increases. The water is routinely tested and meets compliance measures of the State Department of Environmental Protection and health standards, none of which are ever compromised. About four years ago, careful planning was done to launch and fund improvements to the system. From 2002 to today, about $1.1-million has been allocated for various improvements, to include the addition of a major new well at the Pleasant Grove Water Plant and decommissioning of the Citrus Water Plant Facility. This represents a significant expenditure commitment for a small system. These decisions were not made casually and were structured to cause the least fiscal impact to the customer base. To date, Inverness utility rates are among the lowest, compared with systems of like size. The slightly yellowish color should abate by May and is in part caused by the well field and plant facility at Citrus Avenue that is scheduled to be fully off line within the next several weeks. The new primary facility, the Pleasant Grove Water Plant, starts with a very good water source. Customers will notice an improvement once the plant is fully on line as the primary source. We understand the fact that a yellowish tint is not desirable, but we want customers to know the water is safe to drink. We ask for their patience for a short time longer. In addition, the letter writers questioned the aged water pipes in the downtown area. Be assured that all of those pipes are scheduled for replacement as part of the restoration project. Any questions residents may have are important. We ask that customers contact us to discuss a city service, project or issue in general. City service areas may be directly contacted by dialing either 726-5016 for Utility Customer Account Service, 726-2321 for Public Works Utility Operations, or 726-2611 for City Administration Office.
Foes urged to turn out to fight garbage planEditor: As many of you know, the issue of franchise waste collection is being reconsidered at 1 p.m. Feb. 11, at the Citrus County Fairground Auditorium. I urgently request that all Beverly Hills and other county residents opposed to this issue attend this meeting. Although mandatory franchise waste collection has some merit, the method being proposed to obtain it is disgusting and questionable as to motive. We in Beverly Hills have a very good system now, and on a long-term basis, we stand to lose many of our rights. We may not be able to reverse the railroading decision that may be made. We can certainly let our commissioners understand our position and our feelings about this issue and the methods used.
Share your viewsThe Citrus Times welcomes letters from readers for publication. Because of space limitations, letters should be of reasonable length. Letters may be edited for clarity, taste and length. All letters must be signed and must contain the writer's address and telephone number. Addresses and telephone numbers will not be printed. Send your letters to Greg Hamilton, editorial page editor, Citrus Times, 301 W Main St., Inverness, FL 34450. To fax a letter, call 860-7320. Send letters by electronic mail (in text only format) to Hamilton@sptimes.com.
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