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Oakley council raises sewer and refuse fees to replenish reserves and cover equipment costs

Oakley City Council · December 1, 2025

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Summary

The Oakley City Council approved Ordinance 1196 to increase sewer charges (about $6 to $29 suggested) and Resolution 2025‑06 to raise refuse fees (about $5, roughly 20% increase), citing equipment replacement and fiscal sustainability; both votes were unanimous.

The Oakley City Council on Dec. 1 approved measures to raise sewer and refuse charges, citing long stretches without adjustments and the need to fund equipment replacements and maintain adequate reserves.

Staff told the council sewer rates had not been adjusted since 2011 and recommended increasing the monthly sewer charge by roughly $6 to $29 to stabilize the sewer fund through about 2030. The presenter said the fund should remain self‑sufficient to cover equipment purchases and vehicle replacement; council discussed review intervals and adopted Ordinance 1196, which repeals Ordinance 1072.

Council also considered refuse rates. Staff proposed a roughly $5 increase in residential refuse charges (about a 20% hike) to help cover rising costs for trucks and other infrastructure. Council approved Resolution 2025‑06 fixing refuse charges for Oakley, Kansas. The proceedings record shows the sewer ordinance and refuse resolution were adopted unanimously.

Officials said the increases are intended to preserve reserves and avoid using general taxes to cover utility fund purchases. Council members noted the step will amount to about $11 a month combined if both adjustments are passed.