Council adopts ordinance to allow deferred water/sewer hookups, installment plans for assessments

The Oshkosh Common Council on Nov. 25 adopted Ordinance 25‑616, changing municipal code language on mandatory connections to the city water and sewer systems and establishing options to defer hookups and pay special assessments over time.

The ordinance authorizes delayed connection and a 20‑year installment plan for payment of special assessments and connection charges for properties not currently connected to the municipal systems. The mayor introduced the ordinance after the consent agenda; the council took public comment on the item before voting.

During public comment, a resident identified as Klinger raised concerns that many property owners — especially those in recently annexed areas — are surprised by large assessment bills. The speaker urged the council to continue looking for alternative mechanisms, including tax‑increment financing or spreading costs differently, and warned the city should avoid imposing disproportionate burdens on long‑time residents.

Council members acknowledged the ordinance is an imperfect but necessary tool. One council member noted state rules governing utilities limit local options and encouraged residents to work with state representatives on longer‑term changes. The council amended the motion in order to address procedural issues raised during earlier votes and then approved the ordinance; the clerk recorded the roll call at the meeting.

Council members said staff will continue studying options to reduce unexpected assessment impacts and explore proposals that would require changes to state law. Several members urged residents to submit specific ideas so staff and council can take them to the legislature or incorporate them in future policy revisions.