Reliable water, future growth: Understanding PWSD #1 ballot issue and what it means for Kimberling City

Reliable water is more than a utility service. It is essential to public safety, housing opportunities, commercial development and the long-term economic vitality of Kimberling City.

On November 3, 2026, eligible voters within Public Water Supply District (PWSD) #1 of Stone County will decide whether the district should be dissolved and its water system transferred to Missouri American Water. This decision could have lasting implications for the future of our entire community.

Why water infrastructure matters

According to PWSD #1, the district has experienced approximately 65% to 70% water loss, which equates to an average of around 10,000,000 (million) gallons per month, despite years of repairs. Engineering estimates have identified approximately $34 million in system improvements, along with inadequate water storage and limitations in fire-flow capacity. Water storage capacity is less than one day for PWSD #1 customers.

These challenges affect more than current water customers. “Reliable water service and adequate fire protection are essential for residential construction, commercial investment and future economic development for the entire community. Improving the system could help remove infrastructure barriers to new housing, support locally owned businesses and create opportunities for responsible growth” according to Dawne Gardner, City Administrator for Kimberling City.

Under the proposed transfer, Missouri American Water has committed to investing at least $5 million in capital improvements during the first five years following completion of the transfer. Priorities include reducing water loss, replacing aging or undersized water mains and adding fire-flow capacity.

The transfer would also place system operations and maintenance under a larger utility regulated by the Missouri Public Service Commission, rather than continuing under a small, unregulated water district with limited financial reserves. This would provide additional regulatory oversight of rates while offering a path to address major infrastructure needs.

If dissolution does not proceed, the district’s infrastructure problems will remain, and substantial repairs and capital improvements will still need to be funded through immediate rate increases. This would also improve financial stability to allow for future debt service. Bottom line is if the district retains control the cost will have to be absorbed by the approximate 855 PWSD #1 customers. With Missouri American Water, costs are spread among their entire customer base throughout Missouri, approximately 1,000,000 customers.

Addressing concerns about rates 

According to PWSD #1’s published election information, a residential customer with a standard 5/8-inch meter using 4,000 gallons per month would pay approximately $55.81 under Missouri American Water’s published 2025 rates, compared with $58.38 under PWSD #1’s current rates. This is one specific comparison, not a guarantee of future bills. No one can guarantee that rates will never increase. However, the cost of repairing and modernizing the existing system must be addressed regardless of the referendum outcome.

An important decision for Kimberling City

The City of Kimberling City hired Cochran Engineering to perform a Water Consolidation Study in 2025. This study was reviewed in three separate public meetings to help citizens understand what needs to take place for residents and businesses to see not only expansion of water infrastructure, reliable water systems and quality drinking water, but to be able to have fire protection throughout the community.  The dissolution and acquisition of PWSD #1 would be the first step toward addressing these challenges. The district currently lacks the financial resources, capital investment capacity and bonding ability needed to repair and improve its existing infrastructure, much less expand the system to support future residential and commercial development in Kimberling City.  

Improved water infrastructure cannot guarantee new homes or businesses, but it can help establish the foundation necessary for future development. Housing availability, commercial investment, public safety and long-term community sustainability are all connected to dependable utilities. Currently under local control of PWSD #1, the board has to evaluate each new build request on a case-by-case basis. Recently, housing developments have been denied service due to inability of PWSD #1 to supply water.

Kimberling City completed a Water Consolidation Study in 2011 outlining recommendations to address these needs. Had those recommendations been implemented at that time, we could be further along today in providing fire flow, extending water infrastructure along Highway 13 and ensuring adequate water capacity to support our community.

The November 3 vote is an opportunity for eligible PWSD #1 voters to determine whether to pursue the proposed transfer as a path toward addressing long-standing water-system deficiencies.  

Reliable water is fundamental to Kimberling City’s future. The decision made on November 3 will help shape how our community addresses these challenges and prepares for future generations.