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Lake Oswego studies modest utility rate increases, long‑range sewer financing and options to shore up street paving
Summary
Council reviewed staff’s 2026 master fees and charges study session: staff proposed a 2% water rate increase, a ~3% indexing approach for many fees, described a potential $50–60 million sewer financing spike in future years, and discussed street‑sweeping service levels and pavement funding options including franchise revenue.
Lake Oswego staff presented a study session on Nov. 18 reviewing indices and models that will inform the city’s 2026 master fees and charges. Staff recommended modest adjustments aimed at keeping fees aligned with inflation and long‑term capital needs while avoiding large, single‑year spikes for ratepayers.
Staff opened with an index review and noted recent CPI and construction‑cost trends used for fee setting. "This year is probably one of the least exciting years because… they're pretty much around 3%," the presenter said when explaining the basis for the recommended indexing approach.
Key proposals and findings included:
• Water: staff proposed a 2% increase…
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