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Even though northern Chautauqua County borders a Great Lake, there is no denying the water problems that surround us.
In Fredonia, there are boil-water orders occurring nearly every four months. Last week, the North County Water District disclosed its operation is running at a deficit while Cassadaga heard concerns regarding water quality last month.
Additionally, in Dunkirk, there's a proposal to increase the rates for the first time since 2017. Randy Woodbury, Department of Public Works supervisor, says inflation has driven costs up 31% since that last increase, noting he and other city officials used artificial intelligence programs, such as ChatGPT, to come up with supporting financial figures.
“What we are proposing is way more in line with Brocton, Fredonia and others,” Woodbury said.
As for OBSERVER readers, their response is not as positive to the question: "Do you agree with a water rate hike in Dunkirk?" About 66% said no and 34% chose yes.
This week's poll question: Does political affiliation matter in local elections?