A detailed presentation was made regarding the fiscal year 2025 Enterprise fund budgets for the water and sewer divisions. The presentation emphasized the current challenges and the necessity for a structured budget while considering the regulatory impact and fiscal considerations on the department. An environmental engineer provided a financial evaluation of the proposed budget and rates, noting an estimated 14% increase in revenue requirements for the water fund from 2024 to 2025, mainly due to administrative costs, treatment plant costs, and debt service.

The rate study, presented by a representative of a financial planning firm specializing in water and sewer utilities, aimed to ensure the financial sustainability of the water and sewer funds. This study addressed the financial conditions and emphasized the need for short and long-term financial planning. The representative highlighted challenges such as aging infrastructure, regulatory increases, and declining revenue bases due to reduced consumption. The presentation pointed out that without grants and outside funds to offset debt service, the average customer’s bill would be substantially higher.

Council members engaged in thoughtful discussions and asked pointed questions, seeking clarity on terms like “conservative” used in the presentation and the paradoxical effect of reduced water consumption on revenue. They also sought comparisons of percentage increases in costs over the past five years. The council explored various financial strategies, including the importance of building reserve funds and the possibility of a performance audit within the water and sewer department to seek efficiencies and cost savings, which could potentially cost around $100,000.

The meeting also touched on the need for a transparent and thorough process for appointments to the Fall River Contributory Retirement Board. This followed a discussion that highlighted concerns about the current selection process and the timing of the city’s payment schedule, which could impact the board’s investments. While the appointment of Nicholas Christ to the Retirement Board was debated, the council stressed the importance of an open, competitive process and the proper legal and statutory adherence in the selection of board members.

In the public safety domain, the council resolved to work with the administration and the chief of police on strategies to reduce gun-related crimes. The lack of updated crime statistics since 2021 was noted, and the council underscored the need for regular updates and possibly quarterly meetings to address the issue. The council conveyed a strong message about prioritizing community involvement in collaboration with the police department to address the uptick in violent crimes and ensure public safety.

The council recognized the Youth of the Year finalists for their achievements and discussed future plans. Additionally, the meeting included a resolution to review community arts organizations’ events from 2023 and plans for 2024, highlighting the importance of regional outreach, the reliance on grants and volunteer efforts, and the need for city support. The possibility of dedicating a portion of the meals tax or hotel tax to support arts and culture initiatives was debated, with the council agreeing to communicate further with the mayor’s office and finance team regarding this potential funding source.

The council also addressed the accuracy of information on the city website, particularly concerning the Waterfront Cultural District, and debated the need for updating and promoting community events through the city’s online platforms. The discussion extended to the potential financial support from the city for arts and culture, with motions made to urge the administration to consider using the meals tax for these initiatives.