Commission reviews master fee schedule draft; members split on immediate fee increases

City staff presented a draft master fee schedule on Oct. 7 that would centralize fees (permits, tags and certain municipal charges) into one ordinance, with the intent that future fee changes could be handled by resolution rather than piecemeal ordinance changes.

Staff explained the master fee schedule can include fees that are permissible to change administratively and proposed scenarios such as a 5 percent or 10 percent baseline increase to be considered. Staff noted utility rates are not typically handled through the fee schedule and would remain subject to their separate procedures. The draft would allow the commission to adopt the schedule and then adjust individual fees later by resolution.

Commissioners said they wanted more targeted information before raising fees. One commissioner said they would "not be in favor of raising fees just to raise fees because it becomes another burden on our constituents." Several commissioners asked staff to research which fees currently operate at a loss (meters and tap-related charges were cited as possible examples) and to return with recommended adjustments and timing, preferably during budget season or to take effect Jan. 1 if changes are adopted.

The commission gave staff direction to finalize the ordinance draft and bring it back for consideration; several members favored leaving most current fees unchanged until staff can analyze cost recovery and present specific recommendations.

What this means: The commission signaled support for creating a codified master fee schedule but not for immediate across-the-board increases. Staff will analyze fee-specific cost recovery and propose targeted changes.

Next steps: Staff will refine the ordinance and prepare a recommendation, including fee-by-fee cost analysis, for the commission's consideration during the budget season or at a subsequent meeting.