Council delays 2026 water‑rate increase six months, citing billing recovery after cyber incident

MIDDLETOWN, Ohio — Council on Feb. 3 adopted emergency legislation to postpone the 15% water‑rate increase scheduled for 2026 by six months, citing ongoing utility billing issues stemming from a prior cybersecurity incident and a desire to give customers time to catch up on past‑due balances.

City Manager Ashley Combs summarized the staff recommendation that the 2026 water increase be delayed by six months. Finance and public works staff said the 15% increase was expected to generate approximately $2,214,981 in 2026 and that delaying the increase would reduce that revenue by about half for the year; staff warned that capital investment budgeting will need adjustment for the revenue reduction. Public Works representative Scott Tadic described infrastructure needs, including a multiyear sewer mandate and a nearly $9 million water tank project.

Council members questioned the timing and whether an August implementation tied to the billing schedule would be feasible. Council member (identified in the record as Mister Lolli) clarified that the rate increases were adopted in August 2023 and are not a new measure tied to the cyber incident; the delay was intended to provide a grace period for customers affected by billing problems.

After discussion, council moved and seconded the emergency ordinance and approved it by roll call. Staff indicated they can revisit timing if necessary and will adjust capital planning to account for reduced near‑term revenue.