The City of Lewiston is proposing a $25 million general obligation bond measure for voter consideration on May 20th.
According to a news release, if approved, the bond would fund coordinated upgrades to aging underground water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure to maintain service reliability and meet regulatory requirements. It would also fund street repairs impacted by construction. Rather than tackling these issues in piecemeal fashion—leading to multiple disruptions, potential rising costs, and inefficiencies—the proposed project is designed as a coordinated effort.
A recent assessment by Welch-Comer Engineers and GGLO Architects identified infrastructure in need of replacement or upgrades. Many of Lewiston’s underground pipes have been in service since World War I, exceeding their expected lifespan of 50 to 100 years, depending on the material. Aging pipes can lead to leaks, service disruptions, and increased maintenance costs.
The City plans to use existing budgeted revenues to repay the bond.
If those revenues are not sufficient to make future bond payments, the estimated maximum tax impact of a $25 million, 30-year bond is $36.15 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value per year (before any homeowner’s exemption).
If voters reject the bond, the City would need to explore alternative funding which could include exploring another vote to increase property taxes, a utility rate adjustment or phased project implementation which could increase the overall costs and prolong construction disruptions to businesses and traffic.
The City will offer opportunities for residents to learn more about the proposed bond measure through public meetings, informational materials, its website and other online resources. The first public open house is scheduled for Wednesday, March 19th at the Lewiston City Library, in the Second Floor Event Space, at 411 D Street from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
