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Board adopts water and sewer rate study to address infrastructure and federal wastewater requirements
Summary
The Board approved a resolution accepting a consultant—s water and sewer rate study that recommends rate increases to fund capital work including a 7-mile transmission line replacement and meeting federal phosphorus/copper wastewater requirements estimated at $4 million by 2027.
The Harrisonville Board of Aldermen voted to accept a water and sewer rate study and its recommendations, citing rising costs and upcoming federal requirements.
Patty Hildebrand of the Public Works Department reported the consultant (listed in materials as "18 98 and company") concluded the city needs to increase water and sewer rates to keep systems funded and support capital projects. Hildebrand highlighted two drivers: replacing a 7-mile rock water transmission line that serves as the primary source to the treatment plant, and meeting federal wastewater requirements to address phosphorus and copper, which she said represent roughly a $4,000,000 expense that must be completed by 2027.
"Our costs have continued to go up quite a bit," Hildebrand told the board, noting a capital improvement program with near-term projects and an ongoing lead sewer line inventory tied to federal mandates.
Councilmember questions focused on competitiveness with neighboring cities; one alderman asked staff to monitor comparative rates periodically. On a motion from the floor, the board approved the resolution accepting the study by voice vote.
What happens next: Staff will use the study as the basis for proposed rate changes and follow-up budget work and capital planning; any proposed rate ordinance or schedule will return to the board for separate consideration.
