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Gardner gives timeline for Wastewater Phase 2; USDA application and potential 4% rate increase discussed
Summary
City staff reported progress on Wastewater Phase 2 design and funding applications; USDA Rural Development application to follow and preliminary engineering expected mid-2025. Officials said a 4% sewer rate increase may be required under current projections.
City staff updated the Gardner City Council June 4 on Wastewater Phase 2, reporting that grant applications and design work are underway and that rate impacts may follow depending on funding outcomes.
The council heard the Northern Borders Regional Commission application was submitted and that award notifications will come later in June. A congressionally directed spending (CDS) application was also submitted; staff said funding outcomes on that are uncertain but anticipated in the coming months. The preliminary engineering report has been sent to USDA Rural Development for comment and staff aim to submit the USDA funding application in the near term.
Public Works and engineering consultants (Hoyle & Tana) have moved into final design, with electrical and mechanical consultant work underway. Staff reported a 50% design milestone anticipated in August 2025 and 95% design completion anticipated in December 2025. If planned funding does not come through, staff said the project would require a projected 4% sewer rate increase to cover the wastewater fund shortfall.
City Manager and staff thanked Finance Director Denise Brown for her work on applications and said they will continue to pursue multiple funding sources and finalize design work over the coming months.
