Several improvements to the City of Newton’s water distribution system have been proposed.  Newton City staff wants the City Council to approve a General Obligation Water Improvement Loan Agreement to pay for the proposed $2.9-million worth of projects and new equipment. This past Monday night, a public hearing about the loan was set for the December 2nd City Council meeting. Newton City Administrator Matt Muckler says the General Obligation Water Improvement Loan Agreement would provide revenue for replacing water meters, the purchase of new equipment at the Pump Station, and needed work on waterlines and at the Water Treatment Plant and city wells. According to Muckler, revenue from the Water Department will be used to pay off the proposed loan.