Riverton City Council approves water budget amendment amid rising usage concerns

The Riverton City Council meeting on March 4, 2025, focused on significant budget amendments and proposed changes to water rates, reflecting the city's ongoing challenges with water consumption and financial management.

The primary discussion centered around a proposed budget amendment to address unexpected increases in water purchasing costs. City staff explained that the amendment was necessary due to higher-than-anticipated water usage, which had not been accounted for in the original budget. The council was presented with a pro forma showing that the additional costs would be covered by the fund balance, prompting a public hearing on the matter.

During the meeting, council members expressed concerns about the lack of notification regarding budget discrepancies and suggested implementing a formal policy to ensure timely communication in the future. Several members emphasized the need for a structured approach to budget amendments, particularly when significant variances arise. They discussed the importance of monthly reports to keep the council informed about water usage trends and potential budget impacts.

In addition to the budget amendment, the council reviewed proposed changes to the city's water rate structure. Two options were presented for public consideration, with council members debating the merits of each. Some favored a tiered rate system that would charge higher rates for increased water usage, arguing that it would encourage conservation and ensure that those who use more water pay accordingly. Others raised concerns about the potential impact on residents, particularly those in homeowners' associations (HOAs) and planned unit developments (PUDs), who might face higher costs due to collective water usage.

Public comments during the hearing reflected a mix of opinions, with some residents advocating for the tiered structure to promote conservation, while others expressed concerns about the fairness of charging higher rates to larger households or communities.

Ultimately, the council voted to approve the budget amendment and move forward with the proposed fee schedule adjustments, recognizing the need for further study on water rates to ensure long-term sustainability and fairness in billing practices. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions on water management and budgetary processes in future sessions.