Yerington council debates higher standpipe rates and water tracking as Libra Solar project grows

Yerington — The City Council on April 13 discussed proposed changes to the city’s standpipe (J‑stand) water rate and received public comments about how the city monitors its water supply as several large projects move forward.

Interim City Manager Jerry Bryant and Public Works Director Paul Shapiro outlined a staff recommendation to change the J‑stand fee structure: replace the current $25 deposit with a $100 startup fee and raise volumetric charges from $2.80 per 1,000 gallons to $5.00 per 1,000 gallons; staff also proposed a $30 service fee for accounts shut off for nonpayment. The presentation was framed as a calibration of rates to match forecasted demand and debt‑service needs.

Why it matters: Council members said the measure aims to better track commercial use and preserve the city’s water resources as development pressures increase. The Master Plan’s Chapter 3 on Conservation — also reviewed at the meeting — identifies water as an asset the city may lease or sell if supply allows, and staff said they coordinate with the Nevada Division of Water Resources on supply assessments.

Public commenters pushed for stronger monitoring. Local resident Leo Solari asked how the city is tracking usage at its well, saying "there is no meter installed at the site," and urged designation of a city employee to monitor supply. Robbin Biggs and other residents expressed concern about large projects such as Libra Solar increasing demand; Bryant responded that Libra Solar "is indeed paying for the water they are using, and in fact, they pay a premium" and that the project's agreements are publicly available on the City website.

Paul Shapiro, the Public Works director, told the council the rate changes would allow more coordinated tracking for commercial customers. Council members did not take immediate action on the rate design; staff said formal recommendations and an ordinance or rate resolution would return for council consideration at a future meeting (recommendation noted for May 25, 2026).

Context and next steps: The Master Plan review reiterated long‑term conservation priorities, including coordination with county and state water authorities. Staff committed to bringing formal rate changes back for possible approval at a later date and to provide more detail on metering and monitoring options.

The meeting record shows the council also approved unrelated consent items and routine motions before adjourning at 11:05 a.m.