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DeKalb council approves 3.8% water-rate increase as staff readies new shallow well proposal
Summary
On first reading (second reading waived), the council approved a 3.8% water-rate increase estimated to add about $19.20 annually to an average residential bill; staff said the raise helps support water operations and a proposed shallow well that could add about 1 million gallons per day.
The DeKalb City Council approved on first reading (with second reading waived) a 3.8% increase to water rates, a change city staff said would add about $19.20 per year to the average residential account and generate roughly $280,000 in additional annual revenue.
City Manager Nicholas and Water Superintendent Justin (on staff) presented the rate adjustment as an inflation-based step tied to system needs. "The proposal at 3.8% is to add approximately dollars 19.2 more per year to the residential users," the manager said.
Why it matters: Staff said the increase helps maintain operations while the city evaluates construction of a new shallow well that could add about 1 million gallons per day and support transmission extensions. The manager said staff will present a more detailed well-construction plan and financing options at a subsequent meeting, including possible borrowing or use of reserves.
Council discussion focused on water-system health and supply. Aldermen noted the city's diversified wellfield and the location of four storage towers, and praised staff for maintaining capacity despite regional pressures. The manager said conservation and diversified pumping had helped DeKalb avoid sharper supply issues noted in other municipalities.
Action: A motion to introduce the ordinance was moved by Alderman Burbank and seconded by Alderman Larson; the ordinance passed first reading and the council voted to waive the second reading.
What the ordinance did not do: The council did not approve construction financing at this meeting. Staff will return with a detailed proposal for the well, cost estimates, and potential financing sources.
Next steps: Staff will bring a detailed proposal on the proposed shallow well and financing options for council consideration at a future meeting.
