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Water System Improvements
Proposed Rate Increase
Voters Decide – November 2024
Learn more at our upcoming plant tours (one hour) Fridays at 2 p.m. Call ahead to schedule 573-334-6747.
💧 Update Water Treatment
Replace critical infrastructure at the plant to continue producing high-quality water at higher volumes.
💧 Improve Distribution
Replace aging water mains and reduce main break frequency, replace old pipes.
💧 Keep Cape Water Safe, Clean, and Reliable
Increase $8-$14/month for most households
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the water safe to drink now? Yes!
The change in source water caused the treatment process to slow, reducing production. We have a quantity problem, not quality.
How much will my rates increase if passed?
Most Cape Girardeau water customers (89%) can expect to see a monthly increase ranging between $8.19 and $13.89.
How much will improvements cost overall?
Significant improvements are already underway. During the next 8 years,
the investment in plant and distribution improvements will be $56
million. Improvements expected to occur beyond 2033 total $64 million.
Is something wrong with the source water?
The water has been more challenging to treat. There are naturally
occurring substances that develop in our source water, which the water
treatment plant routinely treats to remove. Environmental changes have
slowed down the treatment process, limiting the flow through the plant.
What does Alliance do?
Alliance Water Resources is a professional water & wastewater
company founded in 1976 serving over 40 communities across several
states. Alliance has managed the operations and maintenance of Cape’s
water system since 1992, and also maintains the city’s sewer system and
utility mapping.
Nov. 2024 - BALLOT LANGUAGE
Shall the City of Cape Girardeau raise water rates and fees for the
purpose of funding necessary improvements and maintenance of the water
system such that during the current fiscal year the increase exceeds
five (5) percent and shall Section 29-213 of the Code of Ordinances of
the City of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, be amended establishing new water
rates and fees effective January 1, 2025, resulting, based on current
usage, in an increase in the current fiscal year ranging between $8.19
and $13.89 per month for 89% of water customers?