Neighbors Raise Money To Buy New Pump For Couple After 100 Days Without Water

A Bixby couple out of water for 100 days is finally getting help from neighbors.

George and Brenda Shafer said their water stopped flowing three months ago and didn't come back.

The home up on the hill near Bixhoma Lake was out of water for over three months so instead of waiting on the city, neighbors stepped up.

For 40 years, George Shafer has given back to the Bixby community.

"I'm really greatly disappointed," said George Shafer. "We've been very involved with Bixby and been here a number of years."

George pastored a church for 21 years and helps abused children at his home on a hill.

Over the summer, high usage in dry conditions brought water flow to a stop for several residents. But none lost water as long as George.

"It's been over 90 days and we're just now getting a little water back," he said.

George said his son-in-law hauls huge barrels of water up the hill every week so the Shafers can flush their toilets and take showers.

He said the city didn't help, so neighbor Sherry Barbour decided to take matters into her own hands and started an online fundraiser.

"We closed the $8,000 goal and next week we're looking for the money in hand," Sherry said.

"It brings tears to my eyes," George said. "I'm thankful, but it's really been interesting to my wife and I."

News On 6 talked to city attorney, Phil Frazier, who said several factors like extreme heat and how high up the home is led to the water issues.

He said the city is moving a booster station closer to Bixhoma Lake early next year and that will solve these issues for Shafer and the other residents with low pressure.

Shafer said the $8,000 will go toward a new pump in case the city issues arise again. That new water system should be installed sometime next week.

Click here if you'd like to donate to the GoFundMe.