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In a significant move to enhance its water treatment infrastructure, Brighton City has authorized an additional substantial financial allocation for the ongoing expansion of its water treatment plant. The project, which began in 2022, aims to double the plant's capacity to meet the growing demands of the city's expanding population. The council voted to approve $85 million in bonds, bringing the total investment to over $175 million. This expansion will extend the facility's operational lifespan by another 25 years, ensuring sustainable water supply until 2045. Despite some opposition, the council remains committed to this critical infrastructure upgrade.

Details of the Expansion Project and Financial Measures

In the heart of Brighton, during a pivotal meeting on February 4th, the City Council took decisive action to advance the ambitious water treatment plant expansion. With a vote of 6-1, the council approved an additional $85 million in bonds, raising the total bond issuance to $165 million. This financial commitment comes after an initial $80 million bond approval in 2022, alongside a 9.1% increase in water rates to support the project. Single-family homes also began paying a $6 monthly fee specifically for the plant's development.

The project, now entering its fourth year, was initiated in response to the aging infrastructure of the existing plant, which had reached the end of its useful life. Recognizing the urgent need to modernize and expand the facility, the city has secured $10.4 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding, along with utilizing reserves and grants. According to Catrina Asher, the city's finance director, the city has already spent $68 million from the original bond issuance and has earned $5.9 million in interest, which will be reinvested into the project.

Asher emphasized that the city is diligently preparing for a competitive bond sale scheduled for February 19th, with funding expected to be available by February 27th. The city has three years to utilize the new $85 million in bonds, but the project is anticipated to be completed by the end of this year. Staff members are currently engaged in various preparatory tasks, including engaging with rating agencies and compiling a comprehensive official statement to attract potential investors.

From a journalist's perspective, this expansion underscores the importance of proactive urban planning and infrastructure investment. Brighton's commitment to securing a reliable water supply reflects a forward-thinking approach to managing the challenges of urban growth. It serves as a model for other municipalities facing similar issues, demonstrating the necessity of balancing long-term sustainability with immediate financial considerations. The successful completion of this project will not only benefit Brighton's residents but also set a precedent for responsible infrastructure management.