To the Editor:

With winter fast upon us, sometimes it takes a bit of controversy to help residents ease through the short and sometimes brutally cold days. I am referring, of course, to the sewer and water fiasco underway in Enterprise. I have previously mentioned that, as far as I can understand, a good majority of residents are opposed to an increase in rates and I suggested this should be a starting point for city discussions. Some would have you believe that a fix, without a rate increase, is not realistic, comparing private enterprise to public enterprise. If this logic is extended, would it be proper for a property owner to receive a bill from the city for fixing a pothole out in front of his paved street? Of course not. Why? Three words: taxes and fees something your neighborhood, private repairman does not receive.

When Enterprise implemented its new sewer rates, my bill jumped an astounding 250% without forewarning. Thats right not 2.5% or even 25%. If anybody doubts what is happening in Enterprise, I suggest a call to Wallowa, Imbler, Elgin, Joseph, La Grande, etc. and see what those respective communities charge for like services. Rates are a matter of public disclosure. I made some calls and found out that Enterprise has the highest rate, by far, of any city contacted yet the average income level is probably, at best, modest with many on fixed incomes.

Can a water system fix be implemented without a rate increase? Absolutely. Have the city sell its newly acquired, vacant lot and invest the proceeds in a first class, cadillac of all cadillac booster pump. This would alleviate the short term problem. Dont like that idea? How about a 50-70% reduction in Michele Youngs budget? Dont like that idea? How about contracting city police services to the county Sheriff? Dont like that idea? The point being, Enterprise has some very smart and capable residents. It is the councils job to draw them out, engage them, not tune them out. If we can install a T-Bar on Ferguson Ridge with only local know-how (mostly farmers and ranchers), nobody can tell me that a low water pressure problem in Enterprise cannot be solved without the expense of paid engineers and consultants. It does no one any good if the majority of councilors believe they are in the right and city personnel believe they are in the right only to find out that you do not have the support of the citizens, some of whom were born and raised in Enterprise.