FIRESTONE, Colo. — In a significant ruling, a Weld County judge has supported the Central Weld County Water District (CWCWD) amid an ongoing dispute over water billing with the Town of Firestone. The water district, which has supplied Firestone for nearly six decades, announced on August 22 that it plans to terminate its contract with the town in 2028, citing a partnership it described as “unworkable and financially unsustainable.”
The Town of Firestone expressed surprise at the announcement and indicated it is exploring various options to address the situation. In a statement, officials highlighted frustration over longstanding issues with the water district’s compliance with their contract, which dates back to 1974. The town claims it is being billed incorrectly under this agreement, maintaining that they are being charged both the established water rate and a monthly minimum fee, which is not permissible under the contract terms.
Mayor Don Conyac voiced concerns that the water billing structure is flawed, yet the CWCWD asserts that a new rate structure adopted in 2009 is valid and that Firestone was informed of this adjustment. The water district insists that no formal amendment to the contract was necessary for the rate change to take effect on January 1, 2010, and therefore, the town should be held accountable for the disputed charges.
As the dispute escalated, a Weld County judge initially issued a temporary restraining order on June 4 to prevent the water district from shutting off Firestone’s water service while a hearing was pending. However, on September 5, the judge lifted the order, deciding that Firestone had not provided sufficient evidence to warrant such relief. This decision means that Firestone will be treated like any other customer failing to pay their water bills and could face a water shutoff.
CWCWD attorney Sean Lane stated that the district does not wish to suspend water service but must address outstanding payments, which currently exceed $323,000. He emphasized that while residents of Firestone have been paying their water bills, the town itself has not, leading to concerns about the allocation of funds.
The potential for a water shutoff has left many residents feeling anxious and uncertain about their water service. “It’s hanging over our heads,” remarked longtime resident Bobby G. Matthews.
Attempts to reach Mayor Conyac for further comment were met with limited engagement, highlighting the town’s ongoing struggles to communicate effectively with its citizens regarding the situation. Denver7 also sought to speak with Town Manager A.J. Krieger, but was redirected to email for further communication.
Following the ruling, the Town of Firestone issued a statement expressing disappointment but also respect for the court’s decision. Firestone officials confirmed that they will pay the disputed portion of the water charges moving forward, while their breach of contract lawsuit remains active.
The legal battle between Firestone and the CWCWD reflects deeper issues surrounding water management and billing practices in the area, as the town’s citizens await further developments.
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