Votes at a glance: Meriden approves water and sewer rates, website appropriation, CIP policy and budget

At its meeting, the Meriden City Council approved several committee-recommended measures on rates, capital policy and project funding.

Water and sewer rates The finance committee recommended and the council adopted the revised water-rate resolution (a minor wording change, replacing $6.28 with $6.27 in a whereas paragraph). The council then adopted the sewer-rate resolution; Councilor Graham said both measures were discussed at length in finance and were recommended unanimously.

Website upgrade appropriation Council approved a $45,000 supplemental appropriation to the fiscal year 2022 capital plan for a website upgrade after a brief presentation by the finance committee.

CIP policy and CIP budget The council adopted an amendment to the CIP policy (moving the target from 2.5% to 8% of the operating budget) and then approved the city manager's recommended CIP budget for FY 26-27 as amended. The amendments included shifting several projects between fiscal years, adding Hubbard Park trailhead parking ($500,000), adjusting the health-department renovation to $2,000,000, and listing an Elmir Treatment Plant upgrade currently estimated at $40,000,000 with a $1,500,000 grant.

Procedural notes Most votes were taken by voice and described as unanimous on the record; the finance committee reported most items were approved unanimously there as well. On roll call at the start of the meeting the clerk reported 11 members present.

What passed (high level) - Water rates resolution (amended) — adopted - Sewer rates resolution — adopted - $45,000 supplemental appropriation for website upgrade — adopted - CIP policy change (2.5% to 8% target) — adopted - CIP budget for FY 26-27 (as amended) — adopted

The council concluded its action on these items before taking up further announcements and adjournment.