Branson staff propose lower, phased water and sewer increases; aldermen favor middle option

Summary

City staff presented two rate models for 2026–2030 and recommended a compromise that lowers near-term increases by postponing some capital work and stretching study costs. Aldermen generally supported a plan that would target roughly 10% water and 9% sewer increases in 2026 while keeping reserve targets and meter replacements under scrutiny.

Kendall Powell, a city staff member, outlined the City of Branson’s proposed water and sewer rate plans at a board meeting, saying the city faces a substantial capital workload and needs to balance rate impacts on residents with infrastructure funding. “I appreciate your time in discussing our water sewer rates, proposals for 2026,” Powell said as he opened the presentation.

Powell reviewed rate changes dating back to 1991, summarized findings of a 2010 HDR Engineering study that identified nonregistering commercial meters and recommended a phased meter change-out, and described a 2015 study that established the current rate model. He told aldermen that a 2025 review by HDR flagged the local practice of splitting residential and commercial increases as unusual nationally and reiterated the original policy goal: transition toward funding capital replacements through rates while using tourism tax for major infrastructure.

Using a 2023–2030 capital projection, Powell said the city has pushed capital into 2026 and 2027 to hold rates lower in the near term and that some large projects — including treatment-plant and lift-station…

Branson staff propose lower, phased water and sewer increases; aldermen favor middle option

Summary

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