A lot of work is needed to keep water flowing in Greater Vernon.
Greater Vernon Advisory Committee members have received a water utility asset management investment plan from consulting firm Urban Systems.
“It’s a big utility and it includes agricultural infrastructure,” said Juliette Cunningham, GVAC chairperson.
The utility owns 670 kilometres of water mains, two treatment plants and 46 pumping stations while there are 21,000 connections.
The total infrastructure value is $743 million, and while 33 per cent of the assets are in very good condition, 20 per cent are described as good, 14 per cent are average, 25 per cent are poor and eight per cent are very poor.
The report indicates that the infrastructure deficit could range from $30 to $58 million.
While the figures are daunting, Cunningham says infrastructure renewal is a priority.
“Every year we look at infrastructure projects. It’s not like nothing has been happening,” she said.
Staff will now be developing finances, and Cunningham doesn’t know how the process will impact water rates.
“We haven’t got those details. It may not be as extreme as some may think,” she said.