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Council adopts water-and-sewer billing changes: monthly bills, gallons measurement, $1 mailing fee
Summary
Council approved a code change moving water billing to a monthly cycle, switching usage measurement from cubic feet to gallons, and adding a $1 monthly fee for mailed bills; staff will send mass mailings and encourage online portal sign-ups.
Council reviewed and adopted a third-reading ordinance amending the Decorah Municipal Code (Title 13) to change water-billing practices. Staff explained the ordinance will: move water billing to a monthly cycle; bill usage in gallons rather than cubic feet; and implement a $1 monthly fee for mailed bills.
Utility staff (Carrie) said the city will perform a mass mailing to notify customers, update records, and encourage customers to opt into an online portal for emailed bills and automatic payment. Staff reported remaining metering conversions will be completed for about 15 remaining customers; letters will notify customers that late or incomplete conversion may result in fees.
Council discussed how automatic billing and the new portal will work and asked staff to ensure customers already on automatic billing are carried over. The ordinance passed on roll call.
Staff indicated they will continue customer outreach and provide instructions for signing up for electronic billing and monitoring usage via the portal.
