HRS Dealing with Multiple Water Leaks

The Highland Residential Services is dealing with water leaks resulting in a loss of $40,000 so far this year.

Executive Director Dow Harris said two leaks in Baxter and Monterey have been the main source of financial loss, but repairs are currently in progress.

“That takes away from other things that we need for capital improvements and the inventory in the buildings and the program,” Harris said. “If we are having to spend that extra for water, sewer, electricity or utilities in any matter, it takes away from other things way can utilize those founds for.”

Harris said about 600 feet of line will be replaced in Baxter in the near future. The issue in Monterey is locating the leak, but Harris said line replacements there could also be a possibility.

“Sometimes they are hard to find,” Harris said. “They do not necessarily go to the surface. We get some leak detection services in here and we do find those. This one happens to be one that is pretty substantial. Hopefully, we can get some adjustment.”

Despite the capital loss, Harris said the Highland Residential Services surplus is above the budgeted amount.

“We are running a really good surplus,” Harris said. “Much more than we expected at this time of the year as far as our budget is concerned. We are not expecting anymore unforeseen. Hopefully, we have a good handle on our water from this point forward too. I think it is going to be a good year for the housing authority financially.”