The Water Crisis in Klawock: An Explanation

Arthur Martin Editor POW Report Klawock,

---Water in Klawock---

Right now the City is working with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) to upgrade our water system. This means construction. While working to install an emergency by-pass in the line, the main line was damaged, forcing us to switch residents of West Klawock to the wooden tank water supply while ANTHC and our Public Works Crew worked to repair the line; this likely caused the low water pressure many of you experienced through the weekend.
---Utility Billing---

I hope this will answer the many questions regarding the billing throughout this process, although probably not to your liking. Billing will remain the same. There will be no discounts or reimbursements for water purchased. The costs associated with this service do not decrease while we are working on repairs. I understand the frustration this answer may cause. Once ANTHC finishes with the repairs and upgrades, the City of Klawock's water system will be improved and in the case of a disaster will be more likely to retain the ability to provide clean water to the entire community.

The City planned these upgrades years ago, and we were found eligible to receive them because we have a balanced budget, trained operators, and we collect the utility payments consistently. I have the responsibility to continue running this service in a manner that provides the best opportunity to maintain its sustainability. If that means I have to play the villain and tell you the bills are still coming, I'm not going to shy away from that responsibility.

I am sorry for the inconvenience. The crew is working hard to get us through this quickly. Please thank the Public Works crew and ANTHC for the hard work they are putting in, and direct any frustrations or negative comments regarding this situation to me directly. Thank you for your time and understanding.