Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wasco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in water utilities with medium priority
Wastewater/Stormwater Engineering Agreement
The city closed out a $125,000 state Community Development Block Grant that paid for updating the wastewater master plan — a 25-year look at the city's sewer collection and treatment systems that helps prioritize repairs and upgrades.
Low Water Pressure and Sediment Complaints
Council members raised resident complaints about low water pressure and sand at the tap; staff said no complaints reached them and daily SCADA checks show no issues, and the city will encourage residents to report problems.
Water subsidy program audit
The $60,000 senior water subsidy has been oversubscribed — more people are on it than budgeted. Finance staff will audit participation and require re-qualification, which may mean some current recipients lose the discount but keeps the program solvent.
Prison garbage contract renewal
The city renewed its 30-plus-year garbage service contract with Wasco State Prison — steady revenue for the sanitation department with terms that protect the city this time around.
Smart water meter (AMI) feasibility study
The city will spend up to $50,000 studying smart meters that read remotely, detect leaks, and could recover the estimated 15% of water lost to inaccurate meters and leaks — potentially affecting future water bills.