St. Helens council debates $42 water bill increase amid public safety concerns

The St. Helens Budget Committee Meeting held on May 15, 2025, highlighted critical financial challenges facing the city, particularly regarding timber management and public safety funding. As discussions unfolded, committee members expressed concerns about the city's current budgetary strategies and the need for proactive measures to address these issues.

One of the key topics was the management of the city's timber resources and property assets. A committee member pointed out that the city has significant timber and property holdings that have not been effectively utilized. The speaker emphasized that past decisions to cut timber to fund essential services, such as a water filtration system, should serve as a lesson for current budgetary practices. The urgency of selling surplus properties and managing timber resources was underscored, with the speaker advocating for a more aggressive approach to generate revenue.

The meeting also addressed the proposed $42 increase in water bills, which was met with skepticism from the public. Many attendees expressed their discontent, indicating that the increase might not be sustainable or justifiable given the city's financial situation. The committee acknowledged the importance of public safety, particularly in relation to funding for the St. Helens police department. However, there were calls for a reassessment of recent staffing increases, suggesting that the city might need to revert some of these changes to balance the budget effectively.

In addition to these discussions, the committee reviewed minutes from the previous meeting and addressed specific questions submitted by staff. The collaborative nature of the meeting was evident, as members sought to engage with the community's concerns while navigating the complexities of the budget.

As the city council moves forward, the implications of these discussions are significant. The need for a strategic approach to asset management and public safety funding will be crucial in shaping St. Helens' financial future. The committee's willingness to consider public feedback and reassess budgetary decisions reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in local governance. The next steps will involve further deliberations on the proposed budget adjustments and continued engagement with the community to ensure that the city's financial strategies align with public needs and expectations.