West Richland Complex Information & Comments Form
In 2021, Benton REA purchased 17 acres of land for future development. The land is located in West Richland on Cooperative Way, just off Keene Road.
Aging facilities require improvements in both West Richland and Prosser.
- Increase costs to address maintenance and repair issues
- Current HVAC failing - increased frequency of service calls and cost
- Electrical issues causing internal loss of power, overloading circuits
- Run down facilities due to age and increased traffic
All members benefit from future property improvements.
- West Richland complex results in several properties in Prosser and West Richland that are surplus and can be sold
- District office and crew will remain in the Prosser area to serve members closer to it
- Will consolidate district office facilities and eliminate crews stopping at 2-4 locations to get material before they leave for the outage or job site
- Operational efficiencies result in more work time, faster response time = better service
- Improves service to everyone, not just those closer to West Richland
All comments will be posted on this site for members to view. Please refrain from using profane language. All comments will be reviewed for such language prior to posting.
As a member of Benton REA and a West Richland resident, I am in full support of the new West Richland location due to the numerous benefits it will provide to our community. Benton REA's plan to build a new complex is a necessary step forward, addressing the aging facilities and improving overall operational efficiency. The consolidation of properties in West Richland and Prosser will lead to better service for all members, with faster response times and more efficient operations.
With 73% of Benton REA’s members living in or near West Richland and 64% of field work occurring closer to West Richland, the new complex will significantly decrease travel times, lower fuel costs, and reduce vehicle wear and tear. These improvements will ensure quicker service and better overall reliability for our community.
The estimated 5% rate increase, less than $7 a month for the average bill, is a small price to pay for these significant community benefits we gain including improved infrastructure, better service, and increased operational efficiency.