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Council delays sharp wastewater rate increase after heated debate over CDM Smith work
Summary
Vermilion council debated a large sewer‑rate increase tied to a proposed wastewater plant plan and consultant costs, rejected an initial motion to hold rates, then passed an ordinance keeping current rates through 2026 while staff and the new administration continue work with the consultant and EPA.
Vermilion City Council narrowly rejected an early motion to hold 2026 wastewater rates at current levels, then later approved an ordinance to keep existing inside‑city rates through 2026 while officials seek additional data and negotiation with their consultant and the EPA.
At a legislative committee meeting, administration staff outlined the background: rates had been scheduled to rise under a 2023 study tied to a projected capital program. Council heard that without action the inside‑city rate could climb from about $11.03 to $24.36 on Jan. 1 under the schedule discussed with the city's consultants.
Councilor discussion centered on affordability, timing and the fact that the city is awaiting final deliverables from consultant CDM Smith. One resident and mayoral candidate, Russ Owens, urged a halt to consultant payments until the plans and costs were clear. "I again respectfully ask the administration to cease all work and payments to CDM Smith," he said during public comment.
A motion to keep the rates at the 2024 level was first moved but failed in roll call (Carly, Hal and Gabriel voted yes; Lucas, Wes and Drew voted no; one member absent). Councilors then moved a second ordinance to keep current rates through 2026, providing immediate rate stability; a roll call recorded unanimous yes votes from present members and the motion passed.
The city cited an EPA deadline for a revised plan at year end and said preserving the current rate prevents a large automatic jump for customers while staff continue to negotiate the plan and financing options. Council directed staff to return with clearer numbers and to leave options open for the incoming administration.
Next steps: staff will pursue the December deliverable with CDM Smith and continue discussion with EPA and the new administration; council preserved the option to revisit rates when better fiscal projections are available.
