By Jim Reece -

Plymouth residents last Thursday heard the pros and cons of the Plymouth Water Pipeline Project and potential effects of having it or not. The 2-hour presentation was by the Amador Water Agency, City Consultant Bob Reed, city developer Bob Reeder, project consultant Richard Prima and City Manger Dixon Flynn. Prima said he recommended the Pipeline as the most feasible approach to restoring city water. He noted that wells were unreliable and that returning to the reservoir project could be much more costly. He also touched on the Arroyo Ditch pre-1914 water rights, which he said may or may not withstand the test of courts. The city council members and also registered candidates for the upcoming election were part of the audience, as were consultants for the Ione Band of Miwok Indians and one of its tribal council members. Nearly 50 people attended. Flynn wrapped up the meeting, saying that Plymouth parcel holders have the right to protest and stop a water and wastewater rate increase. He said the notice of the proposed increase allowed the AWA to go out for bids on the pipeline by setting in place a financial plan that would finance a loan for the project. Flynn said there is “no long-term cheaper solutions.” He said developers are not in the business of charity and are not giving away money. Flynn said, “as Richard (Prima) pointed out: Hope is not a strategy.” He said citizens are in the position of acting on the rates and the pipeline and to be in charge of their own future. He said the estimated 12 million dollar project would have a known price when bids arrive October 23rd, and the rate structure could then be released. He said people need to know the rate structure to make their decision, saying it’s “your money, your town, your future.”