The Salina City Commission is looking for ways to speed up the replacement of old cast-iron water lines which where installed in the 1950s and 1960s. The aging pipes can collect sediment, cause discolored water and even crack.
During a recent study session, city staff presented four possible plans.
Each proposal comes with a sobering price tag. If the city moves forward, Salinans could see water rates rise by 49% to 60% over the next five years. Staff recommended “Option B” as the best choice. This plan would replace 25-miles of aging pipe over the next five years and would mean about a 50% increase in water rates during that time period.
Commissioners did not take action on the issue, but do plan on setting water rates for 2027 before the end of this year.
