New Bedford council approves 3% wastewater rate increase and $2.35 million transfer for FY2026

The New Bedford City Council voted unanimously Monday to approve a 3% wastewater rate increase for fiscal year 2026 and to transfer $2,350,000 from the city’s special projects fund into the fiscal year 2026 wastewater enterprise fund.

Councilor Linda Morad moved to receive and place on file and to adopt the order setting a 3% rate increase; Councilor Joe Lopes seconded. The council then approved an order to transfer $2,350,000 from the special projects fund to the wastewater enterprise fund after a separate motion by Morad, seconded by Councilor Brian Gomes. Both measures passed by a 10-0 roll-call vote.

The actions were presented to the council as communications from Mayor Mitchell during a special meeting called for the wastewater items. The meeting record shows little discussion or public comment on either measure before votes were taken. City Clerk Dennis W. Farriault read the mayor’s communications into the record.

Votes at a glance: - Wastewater rate increase (FY2026): 3% increase approved. Motion by Councilor Linda Morad; seconded by Councilor Joe Lopes. Vote: 10 yes, 0 no. - Transfer to wastewater enterprise fund (FY2026): $2,350,000 from the special projects fund approved. Motion by Councilor Linda Morad; seconded by Councilor Brian Gomes. Vote: 10 yes, 0 no.

Roll-call entries on the record show the following council members voting in favor: Council President Virgo; Councilor Ian Abreu; Councilor Leo Choquette; Councilor Maria Giesta; Councilor Joe Lopes; Councilor Brian Gomes; Councilor Ryan Perera; Councilor Linda Morad; Councilor Naomi Carney; Councilor Derek Baptiste. Councilor Sean Oliver was noted as absent by letter.

The special meeting began at 7 p.m. and was adjourned at about 7:05 p.m.