Local Official Raises Concerns Over Proposed Water Rate Changes Impacting Small Businesses

Hamilton County Commissioners are grappling with concerns over proposed changes to water and sewer rates that could significantly impact local homeowners and small businesses. During a recent staff meeting on July 15, 2025, discussions centered around the potential implementation of a new impervious surface fee and adjustments to the minimum base charge for water services.

One commissioner expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these changes, drawing parallels to past promises that did not deliver the anticipated benefits. He highlighted the struggles of small businesses, nonprofits, and churches, warning that rising costs could jeopardize their operations. "I just want to be very, very cautious," he stated, emphasizing the need to consider the long-term implications of any rate adjustments.

The proposed changes aim to address affordability concerns raised by the community, particularly for residential customers who may not use extensive water services. However, the commissioner raised doubts about whether these adjustments would genuinely lead to lower bills, recalling previous instances where promised discounts did not materialize.

The meeting also touched on the timeline for implementing pilot programs related to the impervious surface fee, which has been under discussion for nearly a decade. The board is expected to review feedback from stakeholders and finalize proposals by November, coinciding with the annual budget discussions. The urgency to resolve the impervious surface fee issue was noted, with calls for the board to make a definitive decision to avoid prolonging the matter further.

As the county moves forward, officials are committed to gathering more information and stakeholder input to ensure that any changes made will genuinely benefit the community. The next steps include launching pilot programs within the next six months, focusing on voluntary initiatives that could help mitigate costs for residents.

The outcome of these discussions will be crucial for Hamilton County residents, particularly as they navigate the complexities of water and sewer billing in an environment of rising costs. The commissioners are tasked with balancing the need for sustainable revenue with the financial realities faced by their constituents.