Upcountry water meter Amendment aimed at efficiency

By Wendy Osher

Residents on the Upcountry water meter list would have more time to complete improvements under an amendment that advanced out of committee today.  The Council’s Water Resources Committee approved an amendment that gives water meter awardees a five year window to complete necessary improvements instead of the current two year parameter.

Upcountry water storage. File Photo.

Committee Chair Michael Victorino said the amendment ensures that those who are awarded meter reservations are not forced to ask for extensions or be removed from the list because they are unable to economically afford required improvements.

The County Department of Water Supply has 1312 names listed on the Upcountry Priority List dating back to 1996.  The list is posted on line at:  http://www.co.maui.hi.us/documents/Water/Engineering%20Division/Date08.PDF and includes applications received as of April 10, 2008.

If the improvements are not completed in five years, there is an opportunity to apply for a six month extension from the Water Department provided that active work is being done to meet the requirements.

Victorino said the five year timeline creates better efficiency for the department.  The item unanimously passed out of committee and now goes back to the full council for review.