By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The Barton County Rural Water District #2 was formed in 1974 to provide safe drinking water to approximately 400 people that live just northeast of Great Bend, primarily the Bissell’s Point subdivision.
Over the last decade, the water district’s board has seen a rise in the nitrate levels in their water well. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment told board members to find a solution to the increased nitrate levels. Mark Dean, part of the water district board, said they are developing a new water source and well.
"Once the well has been developed, the current well that is high in nitrates will be taken out of service," said Dean. "The district also intends to purchase new water meters. Some of our meters are in excess of 20 years old. As of our last meeting a week ago, we had 30 meters that were not operating at all."
Engineering estimates put the cost of installing a new water well at $980,000. The water district secured a state grant to cover the $980,000 expense. The district also increased their monthly rates by 58% and their usage rates by 50% a couple of years ago in order to raise enough funds for the project.
Any additional funding will help keep the debt low and rates reasonable for customers. The Barton County Commission approved $65,000 in support funding.
"They went out and found their own grant writer," said Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson. "They got it done. When I say we don't need more taxes in Barton County, we need more taxpayers...we have to have the infrastructure. One of the main things you need is water. It's an area that has seen some of the new houses being built in our community. I think this a good investment."
The water district also provides water to the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, State of Kansas Office at Cheyenne Bottoms and the Barton County Landfill.