Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Water Rates topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Kanosh council adopts $31 base water rate, approves stepped tier increases to shore up system funding
Summary
After extended public comment and debate, the Kanosh Town Council on Aug. 13 approved a water-rate ordinance that raises the monthly base fee to $31 and implements higher per-thousand-gallon charges on stepped tiers; the measure passed 4–1 and will take effect after required public posting (about 30–60 days).
Kanosh — The Kanosh Town Council voted 4–1 on Aug. 13 to adopt a revised water-rate ordinance designed to increase revenue for operations and to help fund a new well and reserves.
Under the motion approved by the council, the monthly base fee will rise to $31. The council also adopted tiered usage charges: $1.00 per 1,000 gallons for the first tier (10,001–30,000 gallons), $2.00 per 1,000 gallons for the second tier (30,001–100,000 gallons), $3.00 per 1,000 gallons for 100,001–200,000 gallons, and $4.50 per 1,000 gallons for usage above 200,000 gallons. The ordinance is identified in the meeting packet as proposed water-rate increase 08132025; the change will be published and will take effect after the town completes its required public posting period (staff said that period is typically about 30–60 days).
The change followed lengthy discussion during which council members, staff and residents debated fairness, conservation and technical fixes. Council members and staff cited town meter data showing a small number of accounts using substantially more water than typical households — in some months more than 200,000–300,000 gallons — which can materially draw down the town’s tank reserves. “What are you gonna do when you turn your tap on and there ain't no water?” said Bishop Newell during public comment, arguing the community must prioritize securing supply.
Council members framed the ordinance as a step toward sustainability. The motion passed on a roll call: David Whitaker, Andy Grafton, Scott McDonald and Josh Whitaker voted in favor; Neil Sharmoy voted against it. The council’s chair (unnamed) said the increase is a “real jump” but necessary to stabilize the fund and prepare for capital needs such as well completion and tank repairs.
Councilors and staff also discussed measures to reduce rate shock: hand-delivered notices to the highest-usage accounts, publication of new rates in a mailer with the next bill and a roughly two-month lead time before changes affect statements. Staff and councilors said they will continue outreach to customers to clarify meter readings, identify leaks, and offer conservation information.
Beyond pricing, the council discussed meter-automation options and grants. Staff reported they have been offered used AMR meters from another jurisdiction; members noted the meters could speed reads but require readers, programming and integration costs. Councilors recommended pursuing grant funding for meter upgrades where feasible and using additional revenue to build a modest reserve for future capital work.
What happens next: town staff will publish the exact ordinance language and effective date and mail informational notices with billings. The council and staff said they will continue outreach to customers and pursue grants and meter upgrades to improve billing transparency and help households monitor usage.
