The Columbia Chamber of Commerce endorsed Proposition 1, the water bond. Proposition 1 will be on the Primary Election ballot on Tuesday, August 7, 2018. The bond proposal will fund nearly $43 million worth of projects to modernize the city’s water treatment systems. These upgrades will include additional reliability and safety elements. To finance the revenue bonds, there will be four rate increases to total 11 percent to cover bond payments. This is outside any potential operational rate increase.

“Clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental right everyone deserves,” Chamber President Matt McCormick said. “Drinking water is not something citizens should ever have to worry about. Everyone is entitled to safe and clean water.”

The Chamber has recently been vocal of the city’s progress with previous bond issues. These are serious concerns the Chamber will continue to monitor and make sure council follows through with voter-approved projects. However, the last time the water systems were upgraded was in 2008.

“Upgrades to our water treatment systems are much needed to continue moving our community forward,” McCormick said. “We are endorsing this bond because it is the right thing to do. If passed, we will work to make sure the outcome of the ballot measure as approved by voters is followed through in a clear and transparent process.”

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce was established in 1905 and is a voluntary, member-supported organization of business, industrial and professional people who are dedicated to developing, promoting and maintaining a sound and healthy economic climate for Columbia.  The Columbia Chamber of Commerce is recognized as a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the United States Chamber of Commerce.