A New Year's Day Celebration: Water Pipeline Opens in Rio Verde Foothills
A Promise Fulfilled: Water Security for Rio Verde Foothills Residents
After years of uncertainty and reliance on temporary solutions, residents of Rio Verde Foothills can finally celebrate a permanent water supply. EPCOR Utilities Inc. is set to open its new water filling station on January 1, 2026, at 7 a.m., marking a significant milestone for the community.
A Community's Long-Awaited Relief
The Rio Verde Foothills, located northeast of Scottsdale, faced a critical water supply issue, with the city cutting off access in 2023 due to drought contingency plans. EPCOR Utilities Inc. stepped in to provide temporary relief, and now, with the new water filling station, they are delivering on their promise of a permanent solution.
A Basic Necessity, Not a Luxury
John Hornewer, a local resident and owner of Rio Verde Water, has been bringing water to the community via trucks for over two decades. He emphasizes the importance of water access, stating, 'Water shouldn't be a luxury. It is a basic necessity. It should be something that everybody has access to.'
Addressing Concerns: Utility and Cost
While the community is relieved to have a permanent water source, concerns about utility and water-hauling costs have been raised. Karen Nabity, a resident, expresses her worries, stating, 'If they use 6,000 gallons a month, they'll be paying with the cost of water and hauling, they will be paying $6,400 a year.'
Regulation and Transparency
The utility's prices are regulated by the Arizona Corporation Commission, ensuring transparency and accountability. EPCOR Strategic Manager Rebecca Stenholm assures residents that the true cost of operations will be carefully evaluated before applying for future adjustments, stating, 'We expect to be pretty, pretty close to where we were when we started this whole project.'
Access and Community Engagement
Residents will need a customer account and access code to utilize the water station. This step ensures equitable access and efficient management of the new water supply. EPCOR's commitment to community engagement and transparency is evident in their approach to pricing and access.
A New Beginning
As the new water filling station opens, Rio Verde Foothills residents can look forward to a more secure and sustainable water future. The community's resilience and EPCOR's dedication to delivering on promises have paved the way for a brighter, more hydrated New Year.
