The city of Heber is grappling with a significant budget overrun in its ongoing infrastructure project aimed at replacing a 70-year-old water and sewer system in the downtown area. Initially budgeted at $83 million, the project is now projected to exceed its budget by $10.8 million, primarily due to inflationary pressures. To mitigate this financial strain, city officials are seeking approximately $3.6 million in funding assistance specifically for the water component of the project.

During a recent government meeting, city representatives outlined the current phase of the project, which includes the installation of a new pressurized water system. The city is recommending that the board authorize funding covering 85% of the project costs, amounting to $3,032,000, with a proposal for a 0% interest loan to be repaid over 25 years.

In addition to the Heber project, the meeting also addressed a critical dam safety initiative concerning the Lindsey Dam, located nine miles east of Heber City. The dam has been classified as a high hazard by the state’s dam safety office, necessitating urgent repairs to its outlet conduit, which has shown signs of significant deterioration. The proposed project, estimated at $610,000, aims to replace and upsize the outlet pipe and install a new sluice control gate. The board is expected to commit 80% of the project costs, approximately $488,000, as a dam safety grant.

Furthermore, the Davis Weber County Canal Company presented a request for funding, seeking a commitment of 52.9% of their project costs, totaling up to $2,380,000, with a loan at 2.1% interest over 30 years. This request reflects ongoing capital improvement efforts in the region.

The discussions highlighted the city’s proactive approach to addressing aging infrastructure and ensuring public safety through necessary repairs and upgrades. As these projects move forward, the financial implications and funding strategies will be closely monitored by city officials and stakeholders.