POLL: What Do You Think About Shared Water Services Between Port and Saukville?

Port Washington and Saukville have their own water, but the topic of cooperative services has been discussed by residents and candidates for the next Port Washington mayor.

Shared services in general has become an increasingly popular topic. A recent study by a Milwaukee engineering firms suggests a combined water system for the communities of Grafton, Cedarburg and Mequon is the best in a series of options.

Though the initial cost of constructing a combined water intake and treatment facility for the three communities would be high, the long-term financial benefits are a better option that purchasing water services for surrounding communities, according to JSonline.com.

Here's what the two remaining candidates for Port Washington mayor about coordinating services — including water services — with other communities:

• Tom Mlada: "We've tried with Saukville in terms of water, and the bottom line is — water for us is one of our largest assets ... and we can't go to the table with the idea of just handing that asset away. I think you look for every way you can collaborate; it makes sense — you need to find the areas that make sense and you will build off of those. I will lead those efforts, I'm happy to go anywhere on behalf of our city."
• Jim Vollmar: "We have water, Saukville just had their well redone at a very high cost expense. I just listened to the state of the village in Saukville ... Village President Barb Dickmann does a lot of good for the village and tells the people what is happening. I don't believe she is uncooperative, but she has the residents' best interests in her mind — and a conversation about such ideas wouldn't be out of the picture."

What do you think about sharing water services with Saukville? Tell us in the comments below.