Madison – Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said today that his 2007 capital budget proposal includes a substantial increase in efforts to protect and enhance Madison’s water supply. The budget proposal fulfills a commitment made earlier this year in his 10-point plan for the Water Utility.

“Madison is fortunate to have a high-quality deep aquifer source for our drinking water,” said Cieslewicz. “These investments will help protect that resource and ensure that Madison residents are receiving the clean and safe drinking water.”

The mayor’s proposal for the Water Utility capital budget includes the following highlights:

* A 188% increase in water main replacement and construction, from $3.3 million in 2006 to $9.5 million in 2007. Aging water mains may contribute to metals like manganese accumulating and reaching home taps.

* Purchase and installation of a $2.4 million filter for Well #29, to filter out metals such as iron and manganese. This well produces water with manganese levels that, while within EPA advisory health guidelines, exceed “aesthetic” guidelines.

* A continuation of the highly successful lead service replacement program, funded at $1 million for 2007.

The mayor is also going to propose additional funding in the Water Utility’s operating budget to increase the number of new wellhead protection plans to be developed in 2007. The additional funding will allow for the development of 5 new plans. This accelerated pace will ensure that protection plans for all 24 City wells are in place by 2010 at the latest.

“These investments will not be inexpensive, but they are necessary for the long-term quality of our drinking water and health of our community,” said Cieslewicz. Overall, the mayor will propose that the 2007 Water Utility capital budget includes investments of $16.4 million – 50% higher than the 2006 budget of $10.4 million.

Any rate increases necessary to support these investments will require approval by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC).