Water problems need more study, information

We've got to get real here, folks, and really think hard about what little old Newburyport and its aging infrastructure can support. If you have not already, read the comment from "Pedro" on this post.

A while back I did this story for the Current about the city's water woes. I spoke with Brendan O'Regan, basically the DPW director, about the city's water needs. He started out by saying that he cannot assess Newburyport's water needs 10-20 years down the road because he has no idea of what's coming down the pike.

I also spoke to Nancy Colbert, the planning director, and the mayor.

Apparently Colbert later questioned what O'Regan had said about the water supply and him having to estimate usage based on zero development at Waterfront West, owned by Newburyport Development/New England Development.

While everyone is hailing and lauding Stephen Karp right now, I have yet to see anyone (in print) question whether Newburyport's infrastructure can support a hotel. I also have not seen notice of all these public hearing about upgrading/moving plants to other locations.

In the latest story from the Current about the Newbury development that needs our water/sewer service, the only Newburyport official quoted is Nancy Colbert.

People should demand answers. Don't just cave in to fancy developers whose job depends on them being able to sweet talk their way into our lives. Look at the landfill, look at what the landfill owner is doing in Everett. And then ask yourself, "How did this guy ever get anyone to allow him within the borders of these towns?"

We did not ask Mr. Karp in (despite whatever he says) - he came here because the land was for sale - but we certainly can stick to our guns.

And as for Newbury - they are our neighbors. One day we may need something from them. Can't think what, right off the bat, but we may. But because they are our neighbors, the chances of them really, really screwing us over are minimal.