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Council debates $114,200 utilities rate study to plan major water and sewer work
Summary
Town staff told the council a comprehensive utilities rate study from consultant FCS would cost $114,200 and position La Conner to pay for needed water, wastewater and stormwater projects; some councilors questioned whether the cost is affordable without a budget amendment.
Town staff presented a consultant proposal to perform a comprehensive utilities rate study intended to prepare La Conner for large capital work on water, sewer and stormwater systems.
"The amount of the study would be $114,200," Scott told the council, describing the scope as a multi-utility analysis and noting FCS’s experience with other Washington towns. He said the town has a substantial slate of projects over the next decade that will require a current rate structure.
A council member asked bluntly, "Can we afford it?" and several councilors noted the study was not included in the current budget and would likely require a budget amendment if approved. Supporters said the work is necessary to set rates that match long-term capital needs and to consider equity measures such as low-income or senior discounts.
Why it matters: The rate study would inform future rate design and revenue requirements for utilities the town operates; outcomes could lead to revised user rates or targeted assistance programs. Council discussion focused on timing, budget authority and the trade-off between short-term expense and long-term fiscal planning.
Council did not make a final decision at the meeting; staff framed the proposal for further discussion and possible action when funding is identified.
