Bristol County Water Authority
Detailed History

 
1986
In 1986, the future projections for water rates were 45% increase in 1986, 13.5% yearly increase in 1987, 1988, 1989, and 1990, and 6% increase in 1991. These rate increases were necessary to implement the rehabilitation of the water distribution system but mostly for the construction of the pipeline, with a future second bond issue of $32.2 million, a project cost of $35 million, and a State Grant of $6.75 million. The BCWA would then be committed to a debt of $52 million, the total of the two bond issues.
Of the six projected rate increases, only the first three would actually occur, 45% in 1986, and 13.5% yearly in 1987 and 1988, which would correspond by the year 1997 to savings to rate payers of approximately $20 million.
 
1987
During 1987 the Authority strengthened its transition to ownership and operation of the Water Company. The Authority phased out the need to have a management contract with American Water Works by developing an in-house billing system and began the process of assembling a management staff. The county experienced a serious drought that required a ban on non-essential uses of water. This drought again emphasized the fragility of the system. Arrangements with East Providence for two emergency connections were made that enabled the County to survive the drought. In addition, the Authority mandated water use restrictions.
 
 
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