ADAMS — Town officials are weighing the possibility of a new water tower to improve the quality and quantity of accessible water.

The discussion comes as finances limit the town’s options to make more sweeping changes.

One of the preferred options for the Town Council would be to extend the Adams Center Water District. However, Town Supervisor David W. Kellogg said a combination of town funds and potential grant money would not be enough to make such an improvement in one move.

The Town Council also heard at its last meeting from engineers at Bernier, Carr & Associates, Watertown, about ways to make improvements in segments.

One suggestion that Mr. Kellogg said would be considered is the construction of a new tower, likely on Fuller Road. He said the placement would take advantage of its high elevation, and the new tower could help reduce problems with salt pollution seen by residents in the eastern part of town.

“We know the problems are out there,” Mr. Kellogg said. “We’re just trying to solve them.”

The discussion came after the board learned that renovations would be necessary at the water tower on Route 11 in Adams Center, either through an expensive sanding and repainting process, which would cost about $400,000, or a complete replacement, which would fall between $900,000 and $1 million. Though a new tower would be more expensive initially, it would require little maintenance and no painting.

Mr. Kellogg said he hoped the board could come to a decision about how to proceed in time to get bids in by the winter or early next spring.

The Town Council will continue discussing water options at its next meeting July 5.

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