ODON—The Town of Odon has announced that recent increases in water rates are directly linked to funding a critical, $8.2 million overhaul of the town’s aging water system.
Town officials emphasized that the rate adjustments, which were adopted in June following public hearings, are necessary to finance the massive upgrade, which promises to ensure safe and reliable water service for the community for years to come.
The multi-faceted project includes:
- Significant improvements to the water plant, which has only had minor updates since it was built in 1990.
- Construction of a new water tower.
- Upgraded pump stations to resolve issues with low water pressure in various areas of the town.
Funding the Project
The $8.2 million project is being financed through a combination of grants and low-interest loans:
- $750,000 in grant money from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA).
- A $2.8 million forgivable loan.
- A $4.6 million bond secured through the State Revolving Fund, carrying a favorable 2% interest rate over 20 years.
Town leaders noted the new rates are essential to meet the bond repayment requirements and keep the project on schedule. The last water rate changes in Odon occurred in 1999, 2015, 2021, and 2022. Officials stressed that the decision was made with the community’s long-term best interest and water security in mind.
