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Forks staff proposes 10% sewer-rate increase as system costs rise
Summary
City staff proposed a 10% sewer-rate increase expected to generate about $50,000 to support sewer operations and capital replacement; Public Works staff warned of rising utility costs, a broken screw press and hiring challenges for maintenance roles.
At the Nov. 24 City of Forks budget workshop, Clerk/Treasurer Caryn DePew proposed a 10% increase in sewer rates to raise an estimated $50,000 for sewer operations and capital-replacement needs.
Public Works Director Hampton described rising costs across the sewer system and said a recently broken screw press may or may not qualify for emergency funding. He warned that the city's historically low utility rates limit opportunities for external grant or emergency-fund assistance and stressed that low wages for Public Works roles have made recruitment and retention difficult.
Hampton also summarized upcoming water-system work and associated costs, reiterating the link between low rates and limited external funding options. Council did not vote on rate changes at the workshop; staff said a formal sewer-rate study and further budget work would guide any recommendation to the council.
