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Vermilion officials say federal talks may lower sewer project cost as residents face big rate hikes
Summary
City officials discussed renegotiating the wastewater project scope and federal deadlines after recent rate increases tied to a multi‑million‑dollar upgrade. Council members urged the administration to press regulators and clarify how collected funds will be used.
Vermilion — City officials on Monday described ongoing negotiations with federal regulators and consultants over a multiyear wastewater project that prompted a recent large sewer-rate increase for residents.
Mayor Fortover and Finance Director Amy Hendricks told the Vermilion City Council they are pursuing adjustments to the project schedule and funding after work by the city’s consultant, CDM Smith, laid out a plan that led to higher projected rates. "We estimate that about $732,000 or more dollars per year in additional taxes from the residential portion of the development components," Mayor Fortover said during council discussion.
The council's discussion centered on whether the city can renegotiate project scope and the assumed cost used to set rates. Hendricks said the city has a draft 2025 budget and is…
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