Aztec backs rollback of utility fees to 2024 levels, effective July 1 if adopted

The Aztec City Commission voted on May 20 to proceed with the intent to adopt Ordinance 2026-569, restoring certain utility fees to 2024 rates and directing staff to prepare the ordinance language and effective date.

"I'm going to probably make the first part of it. I want to move the rates back to 2024 rates," the mayor said during discussion of the fee-schedule amendment, adding staff advised a July 1 effective date if the rollback is approved. Commissioners debated budget impacts: staff reported some service fees would change by about 38%, with other fees reducing roughly 12–12.7%. Commissioners also noted year-to-date gross receipts tax (GRT) collections are running below budget.

Commissioner Buckles said city revenue projections and interest income make the rollback manageable. "I concur with you on going the 2024 rates...it's more than enough to offset the lesser amount that we would receive. So, at the end of the day, it's a win for us financially. And I believe it's definitely a win for our citizens," Buckles said.

The commission approved the motion to proceed with option one (2024 rates) and will return the formal ordinance for final adoption. Staff said the change, if adopted, could take effect July 1; the commission instructed finance staff to reflect the rollback in upcoming budget work and to monitor GRT collections.

Background: Commissioners also discussed GRT volatility and noted that incoming retail development (Tractor Supply) is expected to increase GRT receipts later in the year. The commission did not adopt the final ordinance language at this meeting; it voted to advance the item for formal adoption procedures.