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Ephraim Council approves consolidated fee schedule update, including water and sewer rate increases
Summary
The Council passed Ordinance ECO 26-08 updating the consolidated fee schedule to raise water and sewer rates, allow annual CPI adjustments up to 3% and require a rates review every three years; the ordinance passed 4–1 with Councilmember Loren Steck opposed.
The Ephraim City Council on June 3 adopted Ordinance ECO 26-08, which amends the City's consolidated fee schedule to adjust business license, land use and utility fees, including increases to water and sewer rates.
Megan Spurling reviewed proposed fee changes while Budget Officer Jon Knudsen presented the financial rationale for water, sewer and electric adjustments, saying the increases are necessary to fund infrastructure improvements and maintain system sustainability. The ordinance authorizes non-substantive edits prior to publication, provides for annual CPI-based rate adjustments not to exceed 3%, and requires a formal review of rates every three years.
Council action and vote: Councilmember Anthony Beal moved to adopt ECO 26-08 and Councilmember Bud Powell seconded; Councilmember Loren Steck voted in opposition and the ordinance passed 4–1. The meeting minutes record that the motion carried after that vote.
Context and next steps: The rate adjustments were presented as necessary to address waterline replacement and sewer infrastructure needs cited during budget discussions. The ordinance allows the Council to continue CPI-based annual adjustments (capped at 3%) unless the Council directs otherwise. Staff will proceed with administrative steps to finalize publication and implement the updated fee schedule.
