Homeowners in suburban areas and in certain subdivisions may want to consider a community water supply. This is especially true in areas where private wells are not dependable or in congested areas where private wells are polluted.
To have a dependable and efficient community water supply, systematic and orderly planning is necessary before construction is started. The following information is provided to help guide any group during their initial planning.
What is a Community Water Supply?
Water supply facilities serving more than one dwelling or serving any public building are classed as a public water supply.
Plans and specifications for the water source, any proposed treatment and the distribution system of a public water supply must be approved by the State Board of Health before contracts are let for construction or purchase oP equipment. Under certain circumstances, plans for reservoirs or dams require the approval of the Indiana Flood Control and Water Resources Commission. The establishment of rates and some phases of financing may require approval of the Public Service Commission of Indiana.
Providing a satisfactory water source will usually involve an extension from an exiting municipal waterworks or private company, drilling wells or constructing a reservoir. In some instances water may be avail-able from reservoirs to be constructed for other purposes.
Operative Extension Service, Purdue University, Lafayette,
Mimeo AE-61 September, 1962
Thinking About a Community Water System?
information guides data sources
by Donald R. Sisson, Agricultural Engineer and Harvey Wilke, Civil Engineer
Engineering Service
Since plans presented to the State Board of Health and the Indiana Flood Control and Water Resources Commission must be certified by an engineer licensed to practice in Indiana, professional help should be chosen early in the planning stage. Hire a competent engineer or engineering firm experienced in water supply development. The engineer will appraise the feasibility of the proposed project, comment on available water sources and project costs, and prepare the necessary plans and specifications for the project, obtain approvals, tabulate and interpret bids, assist with fiscal details and rate schedules and advise about the establishment of operating procedures.
Legal and Fiscal Services
Most small communities will find it desirable to organize a mutual cooperative association. Legal counsel is essential for incorporation, to help represent the new utility at hearings, to assist in financial arrangements and other legal services.
Financing
Most municipal waterworks are financed by revenue bonds which hold no lien against the properties served by the water utility. A private company usually obtains its financing by selling bonds or issuing debentures. This type of financing may not be available to small communities.
State legislation is pending that will enable small communities to obtain low in-
Jiana, in cooperation with the School of Civil Engineering