Clawson council hears public input on proposed $0.80 monthly water-rate increase

Clawson — The Clawson Town Council heard public comment on a proposed increase to water rates that speakers said will total $0.80 per month and is expected to begin in January.

Speaker 1 (council member) told the meeting the town had been notified that part of an intended increase might be covered by the Division of Drinking Water but that the division “is not gonna tack that for the 40¢ on,” leaving the town facing the full $0.80 increase. Council members and staff discussed several connection-fee changes: examples cited in the hearing included a 3/4-inch culinary connection rising from $1,700 to $2,000 and certain larger connections moving to higher brackets. A representative (Speaker 2) explained the town may credit customers who have prepaid their bills rather than rebilling them immediately.

Why it matters: Officials said the rise reflects higher operating costs after years without rate adjustments and that some infrastructure and software upgrades could create additional budget pressure. The Division of Drinking Water’s decision about the $0.40 portion will affect whether the town absorbs costs or passes them to customers.

Council members asked for clarity on specific fee tables and billing logistics. Speaker 1 summarized that the new rate would be the new baseline come January and that the public hearing provided a forum for residents to raise concerns. No final administrative reversal was recorded; the hearing closed after council members answered procedural questions and staff described crediting mechanics for customers who paid in advance.

The council’s next step: Staff will monitor the Division of Drinking Water’s final guidance, confirm updated fee schedules in writing, and return any clarifying notices to residents. The hearing was closed by unanimous voice vote.