YANKTON, S.D. (AP) - Improvements to Yankton's city water treatment system will cost nearly 50 percent more than initially thought.

The Daily Press & Dakotan newspaper reports that the projected bill has increased from $19 million to $28 million because of damage to the water intake system during last year's flooding on the Missouri River. The city's intake became covered by sand and had to be raised by divers.

City Manager Al Viereck says the water treatment system upgrades are expensive but necessary because of an increase in water use in the city.

City commissioners in upcoming meetings will be discussing funding options such as water rate increases or property tax hikes.

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