Laura Incalcaterra

lincalca@lohud.com

Rockland will eventually need more water, but it doesn't need it yet, according to experts with the state Public Service Commission who recommended Thursday that the 2015 deadline for a new United Water New York supply be suspended.

United Water has proposed building a controversial Hudson River water treatment plant in response to a 2006 PSC requirement that it add supply.

But the PSC decided in July to review the need for the plant as opponents, including the Rockland Water Coalition, questioned the claim.

The PSC staff recommendation was issued just hours before many of those opponents gathered at Orangetown Town Hall Thursday to conduct a "People's Hearing" in connection to the plant.

The 103-page "Report on Need" concluded that water use had dropped off so significantly since 2007, that the need for additional water supply had been pushed out to 2020.

At the same time, the experts recommended that United Water continue to pursue the permits it needs to construct the plant so if a certain threshold is crossed, they'll be in position to build.

As of Oct. 1, the experts also want United Water to provide quarterly reports on water use each month, along with projections of future demand. They forecast that United Water is facing additional long-term water supply needs and could see an increase in demand due to population growth and an improving economy.

United Water wants to build a plant in Haverstraw, draw from the river, desalinate and treat the water, and deliver it to its Rockland customers. The company provides drinking water to the majority of homes and businesses in Rockland.

While opponents, including Rockland County Legislature Chairman Alden Wolfe, want to find alternatives so the plant is never built, they looked upon the PSC staff report as a victory because it provides the time they've argued for all along.

"We're ready to roll out the task force legislation," Wolfe said. "This gives the breathing room for the task force to do its job and allows us to make smart, informed decisions about water supply and use in Rockland."

The task force could conduct its own studies of alternatives, impose new conservation rules and encourage efforts to reduce demand, among other steps.

United Water said it reviewed alternatives, but determined the Hudson River plant is the most cost-effective project. The company says it would also be drought-proof, an important consideration in a county that relies on just the snow and rain that falls upon it for its drinking water.

A call for comment was not returned by United Water Thursday night.

Twitter: @LauraLoHud