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Storm Lake adopts water and sewer rate increases starting July 1, 2026
Summary
Council approved third readings of ordinances raising sewer and water rates to cover maintenance and to avoid larger future increases; staff provided estimated per-household monthly impacts for fiscal years 2027–2029.
The Storm Lake City Council adopted ordinances June 1 raising both sewer and water service rates effective July 1, 2026, citing the need to cover maintenance and reduce the need to borrow for future projects.
Mister Gibbons, speaking to the council, said the sewer rate change is intended to maintain infrastructure and avoid larger increases later. He estimated an average residential sewer increase of $4.86 per month in fiscal year 2027, with smaller listed changes in subsequent years.
"The rates included in the ordinance will keep up with maintenance and repairs as well as avoid large rate increases in later years," Gibbons said.
On the water side, Gibbons said the water ad hoc committee recommended gradual increases tied to the upcoming water treatment plant construction so residents would not face a large sudden spike. He estimated an average residential water increase of $12.17 per month in fiscal year 2027, then $14.21 and $12.89 in fiscal years 2028 and 2029 respectively. Following adoption, notifications will appear on next month's utility bill and on the city website.
Council considered public comment and asked whether staff had received comments about the water-rate proposal; staff said they had not received comments at the time of the meeting. Both ordinances were approved by roll-call votes as the third and final readings.
The measures will go into effect July 1, 2026; staff said bills for customers and the city website will carry additional notice and detail.
