The committee began with an in-depth examination of water and sewer rate adjustments, a important topic given the financial implications for the district and its residents. The discussion was marked by careful consideration of the potential effects on the typical single-family residential customer. The proposed 3% increase in water rates would result in a $4 annual rise in the water bill, calculated as $1 per quarter, moving the total from $133 to $137. Meanwhile, the sewer rate would experience a 5% increase, equating to a $20 annual increase, or $5 per quarter, raising the bill from $413 to $433.

The committee’s financial analysis underscored the importance of using $350,000 from retained earnings to support the water rate adjustment. This approach was favored as it projected a more balanced outcome for ratepayers while maintaining necessary fiscal caution amidst unpredictable revenue streams. The consensus appeared to lean towards the 3% water rate increase, with a motion made and approved to adopt this recommendation for FY2027, along with the proposed utilization of retained earnings.

Turning to the sewer rate discussion, the committee evaluated the financial repercussions of different increase scenarios. A 4% increase, paired with the use of $50,000 in retained earnings, emerged as the preferable option, projected to maintain a positive fund balance through 2033. The debate took into account concerns about future rate hikes should expenses continue to climb, but ultimately, the majority agreed on the 4% increase. A motion to recommend this rate adjustment was made, seconded, and passed by a majority vote.

In addition to rate adjustments, the committee reviewed and standardized backflow fees. This decision came after recognizing that the costs associated with initial and subsequent tests were consistent. The motion to standardize these fees was approved without opposition.

Attention then shifted to fire service connection fees, specifically for new 2-inch fire services. A recommendation was put forward to establish a fee of $2,000 for this service. The committee also evaluated the water and sewer connection fee calculations, which had not been updated since 2023. Proposed changes included increasing the water connection fee from $4,800 to $5,100 per equivalent residential unit (ERU) and the sewer connection fee from $6,000 to $6,375. These adjustments were discussed in light of their legal bases and alignment with upcoming capital items. After deliberation, a motion to approve the new connection fee rates was made, seconded, and unanimously carried.

In preparation for the upcoming public hearing, the committee addressed scheduling issues. The hearing was tentatively scheduled for March 17th, with a preferred time slot between 6:05 and 6:10 PM. This selection allows ample time for advertising and promotion. Additionally, members agreed to convene on February 24th to finalize the presentation to ensure clarity and preparedness for the public hearing.