In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant upcoming rate increases for water utilities that will impact local residents. The Green Bay Water Utility is set to implement a 17% increase in 2024, translating to an approximate 14.5% increase for the village, which will be passed through without local control. This increase is part of a broader strategy, with plans for further rate hikes every five years.

The village aims to stagger its own rate increases to align with those from the city, which will require a new rate case every five years, alongside the possibility of smaller incremental increases based on calculations from the Public Service Commission (PSC). For 2024, the anticipated rate increase will be 3%, with the remaining 12% expected to take effect in 2025. The village plans to pursue additional incremental increases in 2026 and 2027, followed by a traditional rate case in 2029.

Comparative analysis of water service charges revealed that the village of Ashwaubenon has the lowest rates among nearby communities, while Green Bay's rates are slightly higher. The meeting highlighted that Green Bay serves as the primary water producer, which influences the pricing structure for surrounding municipalities.

Additionally, the sanitary utility funding was addressed, indicating a 30% fixed rate increase this year, with annual increases projected between 5.5% and 7.5% over the next decade. These changes are largely driven by the rising costs of new water, which constitutes about 85% of the village's expenses related to sanitary sewer services. The village is considering a 2% increase on top of the new water costs to maintain project funding and cash reserves.

Overall, the discussions underscored the financial pressures facing local utilities and the need for strategic planning to manage rate increases effectively while ensuring service sustainability.