As a COBI water ratepayer, I was disturbed by City Councilor Barry Peters’ Sept. 23 guest column, “Water utility should stay put.”

As a Bainbridge resident for 53 years and Bainbridge High graduate, I am tired of the city doing most things wrong and too few right.

Mr. Peters’ dogged opposition to a ratepayer-friendly proposal submitted by the Kitsap Public Utility District (KPUD) has undermined any attempt to curb the high cost of water and settle an ongoing and meritorious lawsuit.

Since the Ratepayers Alliance suit was filed 30 months ago, the city has charged water ratepayers $110,000 more per month than the KPUD would have through their proposal.

That totals $3,300,000 – an egregiously high figure compared to what other island KPUD customers pay. His concern and implication that abuses would occur should the city step aside are disingenuous.

KPUD has been competently and inexpensively serving Kitsap County’s water needs for a very long time.

Moreover, they are heavily regulated and monitored by the State Utilities and Transportation Commission.

When it comes to water, the city is in over its head and too deep into our pockets.

Kirk I. Mortensen

Wing Point