The Spokane Press

'Nother Month of Sewer Water

The information that in another four weeks Spokane will be drawing its drinking water from the new underground system is conveyed this morning by Engineer Grant, who is in charge of the work. June 1 was the date given a month or two ago. Pray for a continuance of cold, wet weather. 'I will not attempt to estimate what the total cost of the improvement will amount to,' adds Mr. Grant. But that the cost, which originally was estimated at $25,000, will appal some of those connected with the city government is a foregone conclusion. It is stated unofficially that it will run close to $75,000. More than three months ago, when C. E. Wood, engineer in charge, quit on account of strained relations with City Engineer Ralston, the expenditures amounted to almost $50,000. Since then, it is said, the expenses have been increased greatly. One particular item that will prove a surprise when its cost is segregated is the extra handling of tons of earth when the big well was dug. The workmen then at work did not do as artistic a job of it as the city administration desired. So the top of the well has been given a nice slope and in the meantime the men have since been busy sloping the top. In the meantime this all is mounting up into money. High water stopped work in the well and the men have since been busy sloping the top. The main flume will probably be cut in tonight and the connecting up after that will be only a matter of time. In the meantime, Health Officer Grieve's advice is 'boil your water before drinking it.' The Coeur d'Alene sewer system is dumping its filth day and night into the Spokane drinking water. This wet weather is one of the blessings that come with an ill wind. But for it the city's official negligence or incompetence in handling the water supply might have made Spokane a plague spot.