The Importance Of Regular Maintenance For San Diego’s Water Supply
Have you ever stopped to think about the intricate journey water takes before it reaches your tap in San Diego? The reality is, it involves a complex system of pipes, treatment plants, and various mechanisms to ensure a consistent and reliable water supply in a region that lacks natural water sources. One disruption along this path could have serious implications for local families and businesses, making regular maintenance an absolute necessity.
The San Diego County Water Authority and its member agencies play a crucial role in securing a reliable water supply for the region’s 3 million residents and businesses. With an 80-year-old system to maintain, the staff and Board of Directors work tirelessly to ensure our water system functions properly now and in the future, all while keeping costs low for consumers.
Despite the challenges, San Diego County boasts one of the most reliable water supplies in the arid southwest, with water bills that remain the lowest among all other utilities in the region. The importance of maintaining this infrastructure is evident in the consequences of deferred maintenance in other areas, such as crumbling roads and clogged storm drains.
As the Water Authority’s Board of Directors grapples with setting wholesale water rates for the coming year, tough decisions lie ahead. Rising costs and lower water sales pose challenges that must be addressed to ensure the continued reliability of our water supply. Preventative maintenance projects are essential to keep the water flowing, and deferring these critical projects could have costly repercussions in the long run.
Ultimately, investing in the maintenance of our region’s water system is an investment in our future. By maximizing the lifespan of existing infrastructure and avoiding major costs down the road, we ensure that San Diego’s residents and economy continue to thrive. While no one likes the idea of paying more for essential services, the alternative of neglecting maintenance is a risky gamble we can’t afford to take.
Madaffer is a member and past chair of the Water Authority Board of Directors representing the city of San Diego. Arant is a member of the Water Authority Board of Directors and general manager of the Valley Center Water District.
