Donald Martin of Spencerville addressed the DeKalb County Council on Aug. 13 to raise concerns about the Saint Joe area sewer district's recent rate increases and perceived lack of accountability.
Martin said the district's budget rose from roughly $3.5 million to nearly $7 million and that the board responded by increasing rates; he described efforts to petition or request alternatives (including tying into another system) and said those options were not shown by the district's presentations. Martin asked how residents could hold the district accountable.
Council members and county counsel explained during the public comment exchange that the sewer district is a separate political entity with its own appointed board. The council appoints one member to that board but otherwise does not control the district's operations or rate-making authority. Officials advised Mr. Martin that petition and legal remedies may be avenues for challenge and encouraged participation at sewer board meetings. Council members acknowledged the concern and suggested residents continue to engage with the district process and explore legal advice if warranted.
No council action was taken on the sewer district during the Aug. 13 meeting; the item was a public comment.