Wilson, N. (2018, November 9). Morro Bay mayor candidates talk town unity after close race. Retrieved November 17, 2018, from https://www.sanluisobispo.com/news/politics-government/election/article221367255.html

In Morro Bay, California, plans for a new wastewater treatment and water recycling plant are the most divisive issue for the local elections. The two candidates running for mayor disagree on the location of the new plant, which is expected to be built further from the coast, outside of city limits. This location will result in higher costs. The new plant will replace the old plant, located closer to the coast, built in 1953. It is expected to cost $126 million dollars, and a forty-one dollar rate increase for water and sewer surcharges has been instated to help cover the cost. Over 2,158 protest ballots were sent in opposing the rate increase, with support from Citizens for Affordable Living.

This article shows that wastewater treatment can have serious political, economic, and social impacts. Despite being a necessary part of city infrastructure, I feel like most people do not give much thought to where their wastewater goes. Updating old facilities can prove complicated, especially when relocation is in consideration as in Morro Bay. Not only is location an issue, but so is cost. There is no doubt that $126 million is a large cost, and a forty-one dollar increase in household contribution seems significant. However, in the long run, updated and well functioning wastewater treatment is crucial, and worth the initial investment. Hopefully, the new mayor can approach this issue with great care, and figure out a way to alleviate stress on lower income families while still allowing the plant to be throughly updated.