The OBSERVER’s View: ‘No’ votes prove lack of understanding
‘No’ votes prove lack of understanding
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Last week's narrow decision to increase water rates once again shows the lack of understanding by Dunkirk Common Council regarding the poor fiscal shape the city is in. By a 3-2 vote, members did approve the hike though it should have been unanimous.
Those who opposed the increase -- Natalie Luczkowiak and Michael Civiletto -- were deciding with their hearts, not wanting to pass on the costs to residents. But that type of leadership in recent years is part of what put Dunkirk on the brink at the present moment.
Department of Public Works Director Randy Woodbury claims the city has lost $3 million in revenue over the last decade “by not raising rates annually to match inflation.” Woodbury stated that Dunkirk would still have the lowest water rates in northern Chautauqua County, even after the raises.
Luczkowiak, in a statement, wants business to cover the loss. “The city is right to fix our broken industrial water rate,” she began. “For years, the more industry used, the less they paid per gallon. That structure drained the water fund.
“This is an industrial problem, not a resident problem. Residents did not create the deficit. Residents pay their bills on time. Families and seniors are already stretched thin."
We do not disagree. But what Luczkowiak -- and most of the public sector conveniently forgets -- is major water users are also vital cogs to this economy. They are providing employment for a number of north county residents.
Penalizing only the industrial users who are providing more than 500 jobs in the north county -- in an already punitive New York state -- is far from the best solution. In voting "no," council members need to offer better alternatives during the city's cash crunch.
It is easy to complain and pontificate. It is much more difficult to offer true solutions.