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Village of Duncan approves $8 monthly water rate increase after public hearing
Summary
After a public hearing in which residents and former trustees discussed debt, meter accuracy and capital needs, the Village of Duncan Board approved an $8/month increase plus $2.80 per 1,000 gallons to shore up the water fund and cover upcoming capital expenses.
The Village of Duncan Board of Trustees on Aug. 11 approved a water rate increase of $8 per month plus $2.80 per 1,000 gallons following a public hearing and discussion of the utility’s finances.
Chairperson Gary Schlesinger opened the hearing and said the water fund is losing money: “if we do nothing, we will lose $96,000 in the water account this year.” Residents and former trustees questioned past rate decisions, meter accuracy and use of sales tax revenue, and staff outlined options from an outside rate study.
Clerk Marianna Evans told the Board that the Nebraska Rural Water Association (NRWA) performs the Village’s rate studies using the prior three years of sales and expenses and presents the Board with a ‘break-even’ option and a second option aimed at building a 15% reserve. Evans said the Board historically chose the break-even option and that the Village has run deficits throughout the last decade; she reported the NRWA recommended studies every three years to justify changes.
Resident Paige Young urged the Board to consider creating a tax levy to reduce pressure on user rates and offered to provide a detailed plan. Former Utility Superintendent Don Reves told the meeting that meters rarely over-report and recommended that any resident who suspects a faulty meter request testing and replacement through the Village.
Trustee Nick Wagoner flagged a near-term capital need: filter media in the treatment plant have exceeded their typical 20-year life and replacement was estimated at about $200,000. Schlesinger and others said building reserves now is important to avoid larger rate spikes if major equipment fails.
After public comment, the Board closed the hearing at 7:40 p.m. and approved the motion to raise rates (motion by Schlesinger; second Denbo). The vote was unanimous: Denbo, Wagoner, Schlesinger, Ratcliffe and Steyn voted aye and none opposed.
Evans also noted that assistance programs are available to help elderly or low-income residents who may have trouble paying higher bills. The Board did not set a date for further review; the next regular meeting is Sept. 8, 2025.
