The Tribune ran a story (Jan. 27) questioning the need for a $41 million “insurance” system for suburban water commissions. The story bemoaned the high costs inherent in establishing what some suburbanites claim is “the public works version of a belt with suspenders.”
What’s the alternative? Thousands of suburbanites rely on bottled drinking water. It’s important to understand that less than one gallon out of every 1,000 processed by municipal water systems is consumed. The other 999 gallons are used for bathing, washing and to water lawns.
Consequently, even when the delivery of water is interrupted by pipeline breaks or other events, with bottled drinking water consumers will be assured of a steady supply of fresh water for their families.
We think that’s a pretty inexpensive “insurance” plan for any Chicagoan.
