Without question, the most contentious issue in the village of Fredonia comes down to the water. There are two choices: Keep the reservoir and antiquated treatment plant or find an outside source, such as the North County Water District, to supply users.

On Sept. 10, the Village Board is expected to make those decisions — and it appears they are leaning toward purchasing water from Dunkirk. That is very understandable.

In the current situation, Fredonia’s water is unreliable. There have been six boil-water orders in the last 31 months. It does not matter if the order happened due to employee error or malfunction. That’s an inconvenience — and unacceptable.

As we have read in these pages over the last three years, there is definitely a segment of residents who want to Save the Reservoir and keep the system tied to the village. If that is the case, the group needs to be louder than the three or four individuals who are coming forward. If there is a petition, how many have signed it?

During last month’s emergency, it is quite clear that many residents have grown frustrated. Besides waiting in line for canned water, there was even some criticism levied that was heard loud and clear by the Fire Department that was helping in the distribution.

Those critics, we have to believe, want reliable water — just like the businesses and restaurants that are located downtown. As does the State University of New York at Fredonia, which before the three-week water emergency in September 2020 had 4,400 students. Today, there are 3,100.

Water issues and Fredonia are notoriously linked. That is a fact.

There have been lots of delays in this issue — dating back to 30 years ago. It appears as though this board is ready to make a decision.

For those who would rather not go down this path, show up in force and be more vocal. There’s 25 days until the vote.

Three or four of the same individuals speaking on water independence is important, but it does not give the appearance of a larger unified voice. If it is there, it has to be seen.