Council tables ordinance to change utility-billing procedures

Gunnison’s City Council voted April 1 to table Ordinance 2026-02, a proposed revision to utility-billing procedures that would limit utility-account names to property owners and create a formal council hearing before water service termination for alleged wasteful use. The ordinance would also clarify when service can be shut off for excessive use.

Dennis, a staff presenter, told the council the changes are aimed at reducing waste and protecting culinary water. “We were looking at leaks and addressing trying to preserve a water resource, while not impacting those typical households,” he said. He noted the proposal gives the council discretionary authority to determine what qualifies as wasteful use.

Several council members urged creating a separate, faster process for clear, fixable leaks rather than routing every instance through the more subjective “wasteful use” hearing. “I would rather do something a little bit separate for those instances,” the chair said, arguing a leak notice with a time window to repair would be more objective and efficient.

The council also raised technical questions about how the draft treats out-of-city connections and whether irrigation shares or money-in-lieu payments should be accepted instead of culinary water rights. One member asked for clearer language distinguishing culinary (drinking) water rights from irrigation shares and for options staff could present.

Councilman Pickett moved to table the ordinance so staff could produce alternative draft language and options; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. Council directed staff to return with suggested revisions and specific wording at a future meeting.