Two other utilities -- Avion Water and Roats Water have expressed interest in purchasing the utility that serves neighborhoods on the southside of Bend.

The city of Bend took over the utility after it was condemned in 2002.

The city has poured around 5 million dollars into upgrading the water system, but are looking to have to spent an additional 14 million more.

It might make more sense to sell it to the other utilites.

City of Bend Engineer Tom Hickmann says that's what they're trying to find out.

"We met with HOA board members and I think everbody's just trying to take it all in.  Nothing is firm yet.  I think there's some hope and there's concern on all sides.  There's not enough info for anyone to strongly react at this point."

Hickmann expects the parties to make a decision by fall whether the city will continue to operate the utility or whether to sell it to the other utiltiies.