Delays in Grandview water system install raising concerns

July 25, 2022

Unexplained delays in installing a water system to bring water to the old section of Grandview Cemetery are raising concerns among some who contributed to the Old Grandview Cemetery Water Fund several years ago, and few answers have been forthcoming. Personnel at KG&T, contracted to install the system in the spring of 2018, say the delays have been caused by subcontractors, without further explanation.

According to Jim Thompson, who launched the fundraising drive in 2016 after years using his own equipment to nurse water from the ancient lines to keep as much of the old cemetery area green as possible, said that to date, a water line has been laid from the city system to the top of the hill and little else.

"Last year, they spent about a day running a line from the booster pump hole to the electrical box at the cemetery maintenance building," Thompson said.

Of the approximately $60,000 raised, about $800 is left.

"Had they just gone in and done the job, it could have been finished in 2018,"Thompson said. "I'm worried now that they'll say they need more money because prices have gone up."

The fund remains open at Mountain West Bank.

Those with concerns can call Grandview Cemetery Board Chair Allen Fessler, (208) 267-7528, or write Jim Thompson, P.O. Box 67, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805.

"A lot of people gave to this project and would like to see it finished," Jim said after another day stretching water hoses from leaking bibs. "Myself included."