INFORMATION CONCERNING $2,645,000 REVENUE BOND ELECTION
When to Vote: TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2000 - Where to Vote: KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL

The Board of Aldermen has authorized a revenue bond proposal on the August 8th ballot asking for your approval to issue $2,645,000 revenue bonds to make improvements in order to secure a long term, reliable source of water.

The Issue

1) Since 1990, Kearney's population has grown 128% to over 5,000. the City's source of water supply is groundwater pumped from a small glacial aquifer running along Clear Creek. Engineering studies have determined that future demands for water will soon exceed the capacity of this water aquifer.
2) Without an adequate water supply, future residential and industrial growth for Kearney will be drastically reduced.
3) After an extensive evaluation of water supply options, the Board of Aldermen determined the safest, most plentiful and most cost effective water source is the Kansas City Water Services Department.
The Proposed Project

1) Construct a 1 million gallon water tower and new water mains to improve the distribution system to connect with our Kansas City water supply
2) Construct an 18 inch transmission main to the connection point at 69 Highway and Jesse James Road.
3) Construct a new pumping and metering station.

No Property Tax Increase

Your property taxes are not affected as a result of this bond issue. The bonds will be paid for with a combination of revenue from water sales and connection fees.

To offset water rate increases to existing residents, an equitable portion of the water improvements is being allocated to new construction. Water connection fees will be established in the amount of $2,460 for all new water customers.

For the first time in 5 years, an adjustment in the water rate will be necessary to complete the proposed improvements. Sewer rates will remain the same.

Comparison of Other Cities
Based on 7,500 Gallon Usage
(Combined Water & Sewer Rate)

Raymore……………………………………… $84.38
Liberty………………………………………… $55.89
Platte City………………………………………$54.80
Lee's Summit………………………………… $54.63
Lawson………………………………………… $49.70
Kearney (Proposed Charge)……………… $47.86
Smithville……………………………………… $40.49
Excelsior Springs…………………………… $39.40
Kearney (Current Charge)………………… $35.15


For more information, please contact Kearney City Hall, 628-4142.