City of Boardman Highlights Critical Impact of 2020 Infrastructure Improvement Bond During Recent Fire Response

Boardman, OR — Thanks to the voter-approved infrastructure bond passed in May 2020, Boardman firefighters had the reliable water supply and pressure needed to effectively contain a recent blaze and protect the community from greater devastation.

Upgrades made possible by the bond—including larger water mains, a redundant loop in the system, a new Ranney collector, a million-gallon water tank, and a reliable backup supply—proved essential in ensuring emergency responders had the resources they needed when it mattered most.

“Had this happened six years ago, it would have been a completely different story,” said Chief Rick Stokoe of the Boardman Police Department. “At that time, we didn’t have the redundant loop, the backup supply, or the larger water lines that made such a critical difference during this fire.”

Beyond fire protection, the improvements enhance the overall reliability of Boardman’s water system for residents and businesses alike. The $18 million general obligation bond passed by citizens in 2020 funded a series of major projects, including:

• Wastewater System Improvements (WWSI): Began April 2022 and completed October 2023 at a cost of $3.46 million. This project expanded the City’s wastewater treatment lagoons and refurbished three primary lift stations to support community growth.
• Phase 1 Water System Improvements (WSI): Construction of Collector Well No. 3, completed June 2023 at a cost of $3.47 million.
• Phase 2 Water System Improvements (WSI): CW3 Pump Station, Booster Pump Station, and a 1-million-gallon reservoir, completed March 2025 at a cost of $10.86 million. With these upgrades, the City can now withdraw its full 36 cubic feet per second surface water right and deliver up to 22,000 gallons per minute to meet peak demand.

City leaders emphasized that this investment has already demonstrated its value by strengthening Boardman’s ability to protect lives and property in times of emergency.

“Boardman residents can take pride in knowing that their decision to support these improvements has had a direct, positive impact on public safety,” added Chief Stokoe. “This investment in infrastructure has already proven its worth by helping safeguard our community.”

For more information on the City of Boardman’s water and wastewater projects, please contact Brandon Hammond, City Manager.