Manassas council agrees to advertise water, electric and sewer rate changes for public hearing

The Manassas City Council agreed by consensus to advertise proposed utility rate changes for a public hearing after a staff presentation showing the city's electric and water enterprise funds are not covering operating and personnel costs.

City staff told council the consultant recommended a larger increase but proposed an 8.5% annual increase as a compromise; under that scenario, staff said electric would reach break-even in about three years and water in about five years. "The 8 and a half percent will not arrive at a break even for personnel and operating in electric for 3 years if we do the 8 and a half percent increases for all 3 years. It won't reach a break even point for water for 5 years," said Mr. Burke, a staff member presenting the study.

The council directed staff to publish the advertised rates and hold a public hearing before final action. Council members who spoke during the discussion emphasized both the financial need and the burden on residents: Council Member Vasquez Luna said she understood the numbers but told colleagues, "I don't see…