Assembly adopts balanced FY2027 budget and approves utility rate updates and sewer fee amendment

The Petersburg Borough Assembly adopted the fiscal year 2027 operating budget and approved related utility ordinances during its June meeting.

The assembly unanimously approved the FY2027 budget (effective July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027). Members described the budget as conservative and balanced and thanked finance staff for their work; one member noted residents’ concerns about rising assessments and utility rates even while supporting the overall plan.

On utility matters, the assembly unanimously approved an ordinance updating electric utility rates and charges for FY2027 so Petersburg Municipal Power and Light can cover operating costs, inflation and capital needs. The assembly also considered sewer‑utility rate updates and approved an amendment to private sewage‑disposal fees, replacing the previous $4 per 100 gallons rate with $8 and changing $50 per 55 gallons to $100 following a staff memo. The amendment passed unanimously and the amended ordinance also passed 6-0.

Members said rate increases were difficult but necessary to sustain service and infrastructure. “This is a balanced budget,” Member Stan Greger said, thanking finance staff; Member Martin acknowledged constituent concerns about higher rates and tax assessments and said he hoped the public would engage in next year’s budget process.

What’s next: The budget and rate changes take effect per ordinance language; staff will post formal rate schedules and continue outreach about impacts and planned capital projects.