Oasis or Ostrich: Introduction

By Cher Phillips | 13 December 2007 | Introduction | State Rate Map | Subsidized Water

The small historic town of McIntosh in north-central Florida remains buffered from drought and state warnings that future groundwater resources won't provide enough drinking water to the area by the year 2025.

Unworried about the future, town leaders say they hold to some of the state's cheapest water rates because McIntosh has a tradition of subsidizing water rates for its residents.

Is McIntosh an oasis or an ostrich burying its head in sandy soil deep enough to sip from the wells that support the town's water supply?

 

 

McIntosh Water System

Subsidized Water

McIntosh's Town Mayor Cary McCullom explains why the small town has kept its water rates so low over the years. Despite growing concerns about water, McCullom says he believes McIntosh will continue to have the resources to sustain its residents.

> See the audio slideshow

Graphic: Water Rate Comparison

Rate Comparison

Across the state, Floridians pay rates that vary from dirt cheap to exorbitant. Check out a map comparison of what a monthly bill for 23,000 gallons would cost across the state of Florida.

> See the rate map