Stormwater discussion between Pueblo and Colorado Springs

A heated debate over the southern delivery system Monday, between Pueblo County commissioners and Colorado Springs city leaders.

Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers tried to convince the commissioners that the city will keep its commitment to improve its storm water system.

The SDS pipeline will carry millions of gallons of water from the Pueblo Reservoir to Colorado Springs.

But Pueblo County Commissioners are skeptical of a partnership with the Springs, citing a failure to follow through with past storm water agreements.

“We will commit this level of funding for a certain period of time and they’ll have enforcement mechanisms if we don’t produce,” said Suthers.

“When you control storm water, you control the utility, you improve the environment and the public safety,” said Pueblo County Commissioner Buffie McFadyen.

Water is set to begin flowing through the southern delivery system in April.