City Council plans public hearing on impending water rate changes for August 2025

The City of Coeur d'Alene City Council convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss several key issues, primarily focusing on water rate adjustments and the scheduling of a public hearing.

The meeting began with a presentation regarding proposed changes to water rates, which are set to take effect on August 1, 2025. The council was informed that the city has experienced significant growth, necessitating a comprehensive update to the water rate study and the comprehensive plan. Due to the complexity of these updates, the council did not have the necessary information ready for the usual April 1 implementation date.

During the discussion, council members raised questions about the timing and rationale behind the proposed rates. It was clarified that the city has historically implemented a 2.5% increase annually, but the current proposal aims to ensure that all data is accurate and reflective of the city's needs before moving forward.

Additionally, the council discussed the importance of green spaces in the city, acknowledging that Coeur d'Alene is one of the largest users of water. This led to inquiries about potential discussions regarding water usage in specific areas, indicating a desire to balance water conservation with the community's preference for maintaining green spaces.

The council concluded the meeting by agreeing to schedule a public hearing for July 15, 2025, to further discuss the proposed water rates and gather community feedback. The council expressed a commitment to providing additional information as needed to address any outstanding questions from the public.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's proactive approach to managing water resources amid growth, while also emphasizing the importance of community engagement in the decision-making process.