19/07/2025
Ward 2: Our Water, Our Voice: Why Your Vote Matters on August 5
Story at semourbanvoices.com
CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO – On August 5, 2025, residents of Ward 2 will have the power to make a decision that goes far beyond water—it’s a vote that impacts our health, our homes, and our future. On the ballot is a proposal to improve Cape Girardeau’s aging water system—ensuring our community has clean, reliable, and affordable water for generations to come. This is our chance to stand up and help shape a safer, stronger future for Ward 2 and the entire city.
At a recent Voter Education Event held at the Shawnee Park Center, Councilwoman Tameka Randle gathered neighbors together to discuss the upcoming ballot proposal and what it means for families in Ward 2.
“This vote is about making sure Ward 2 gets the same protection and investment as every other part of Cape,” said Randle. “We deserve safe, dependable water in our homes—and we deserve to help decide how it’s delivered.”
What’s on the Ballot?
The August 5 proposal would allow the City to:
Upgrade the Cape Rock Water Treatment Plant to meet growing demand
Replace aging water mains to reduce service outages and boil water advisories
Limit annual rate increases to no more than 15%, only when needed
The plan is designed to make essential upgrades without sudden or excessive costs to residents. In fact, most households would see a monthly increase of just $1.47 to $5.58 in the first year. Compared to the consequences of doing nothing, that small investment is a big step toward long-term stability.
Why It Matters to Ward 2
Cape Girardeau’s source water changed over a decade ago, from river water to well water. While this was meant to be an improvement, it introduced new challenges. The current water is harder to treat, slowing down the system and putting extra pressure on outdated pipes—many of which run through our own neighborhoods.
“This vote isn’t just about pipes,” Randle reminded attendees. “It’s about fairness. It’s about finally giving Ward 2 the infrastructure and investment we’ve been waiting for.”
If voters do not approve the proposal, the City will still be forced to perform emergency repairs—but without a plan or the funding to keep up. That means:
❌ More frequent water main breaks
❌ More boil water advisories
❌ More long-term costs
❌ Increased risk of water shortages
In other words, we’ll fall behind, fast. And as usual, it’s neighborhoods like ours that will suffer first and most.
What’s the Cost?
Water system improvements don’t come cheap. The City has already invested $9 million in critical repairs. Another $56 million will be needed over the next 7–8 years for plant upgrades and priority pipe replacements. Beyond 2033, more than $64 million will be necessary to keep the system running strong.
The proposal ensures that these investments are made responsibly and affordably, with a strict 15% annual cap on rate increases. Unlike past proposals, this plan phases in increases slowly and only when necessary.
Why Your Vote Counts—
Ward 2 has long been one of Cape’s most overlooked and underrepresented communities. We work hard, we pay our bills, but we’re often left behind when decisions are made.
That’s why voter turnout is so important this year. For decades, low participation in Ward 2 has meant others make decisions for us—about our water, our schools, our roads, our resources.
This time, we can change that. By voting YES on August 5, we’re not just fixing water pipes—we’re claiming our right to safe homes, healthy kids, and a fair share of the city's investment.
Make Your Voice Heard
You can make a difference: Clean water is a right—not a privilege. Let’s vote like it. Mark your calendar: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, and bring a friend or neighbor to the polls. Need help or info? Contact Councilwoman Tameka Randle or visit www.cityofcapegirardeau.org/water
Final Word
Clean, affordable water isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. And it’s something every family in Ward 2 deserves. The August 5 vote is about more than infrastructure it’s about ensuring our voices are not left out of the conversation.
Let’s show up. Let’s speak up. Let’s vote YES—to make sure our community gets the investment it deserves.
Call 573-334-6747 and schedule a Water Treatment Plant Tour to see firsthand the need.
Urban Voices will continue coverage of the issue that impact communities of southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois.
