Leeds commission adopts consolidated fee schedule, approves $150,000 transfer to library

The Leeds City Commission on Dec. 16 approved a consolidated fee schedule that raises a range of municipal charges and approved a $150,000 transfer from the general fund to the library fund.

The package, recorded as Resolution 2024-13 and discussed at length during the meeting, reorganizes fees across departments and raises several key charges. The commission approved changes including a $5 increase to water rates (making the first 2,000 gallons $33 and each additional 1,000 gallons $3.65), excavation permits rising from $50 to $500, a sewer tap fee increase from $150 to $1,500, higher inspection-hour charges ($40/hour for normal hours), and multiple adjustments to building-permit bands. Cemetery gravesite and perpetual-care fees were also raised. Commissioners discussed short-term rental fees and parking adjustments as part of the consolidated list.

Sarah, a library representative, warned about looming state budget cuts and emphasized local support needs: "it includes quite a hit to the state library," she said, saying the reductions could affect interlibrary loans, digital resources and staff training.

The commission also approved Resolution 2024-14 to transfer $150,000 from the general fund to the library fund, the annual supplemental payment the city provides to support library operations. The motion to approve the transfer was made, seconded and adopted by voice vote.

Officials said the consolidated resolution is intended to keep fees in one annually reviewed place so changes can be tracked and adjusted together. Staff noted some items will be returned for second reading or refined language where ordinance text needed clarification.

What’s next: Some ordinance and fee changes will be revised for clarity and, where required, return for a second reading. The transfer to the library is effective following the commission’s approval.