SALEM, W.Va. -- Salem' is getting ready to shut down its water plant, and although the public doesn't want Harrison County's help, it'll be left high and dry if it doesn't agree to the line.

The City of Salem has supplied its own water for more than 40 years.

But because the price to rebuild the water plant is millions more than the alternative - extending a Clarksburg water line all the way to Doddridge County - the Salem water plant is expected to close.

"Salem has been an independent, small, country rural town for many years. We've been our own manager, so to speak, and we want to be able to continue to control our own town,” said long-time resident Maxine Mason.

The Harrison County Planning Commission has offered to extend Clarksburg water through the western part of the county, but is encountering resistance.

David Mayle, the Salem City Manager, understands the choices but doesn't budge when it comes to protecting his town from high rate hikes.

"This administration is committed...committed...to making sure the rates don't increase a dramatic amount. If they go up anywhere from 48 to 53%, I'm afraid I'll tell the state we can't afford it, and we don't need the water," said Mayle.

Salem residents are passionate about keeping their water plant; a source of independence for the tiny rural town.

But they say that if they have to have a water line from Clarksburg, through Sun Valley, through Salem to the Doddridge County Line, they want a unified, county-wide water board.

Ron Watson, the President of the Planning Commission, says the most important thing is to get safe, dependable water to help Salem grow.

"Our intent is to do whatever we can to get potable water at the least amount of cost to the people in the western end of our county. That'll bring development and a number of other positive things that comes with it. There's always a price tag when you do that," Watson said.

Representatives from Clarksburg, Sun Valley, and Salem will all go to Charleston Wednesday to make a decision about the water line.