Robins to begin talks with Hiawatha on water operations; council raises Cedar Rapids surcharge to 10%

The City of Robins City Council voted March 2 to direct staff to begin contract negotiations with the City of Hiawatha for long-term operation and maintenance of the municipal water utility and separately approved raising the surcharge collected by Cedar Rapids on Robins' behalf from 3% to 10%.

City Engineer Kelli Scott presented staff’s evaluation of options for long-term O&M, including private contractors and municipal partnerships, and recommended pursuing negotiations with Hiawatha. Councilor Leigh Cook moved to direct staff to initiate negotiations; Councilor Bruce Vander Sanden seconded; the roll call vote was unanimous (5-0).

On a related finance item, the Council approved Resolution No. 0326-02, raising the Cedar Rapids-collected surcharge from 3% to 10% to provide revenue for water system operation, maintenance and capital improvements. Based on staff estimates of average residential usage, the change would increase bills by about $4.35 per month per household. Mayor Chuck Hinz emphasized the adjustment reflects the need to keep pace with infrastructure costs and ensure adequate reserves for future improvements.

Council directed staff to begin negotiations and return with draft terms and any implementing documents. Staff will also coordinate with Cedar Rapids on billing updates arising from the new surcharge rate. The Council's directive to negotiate does not itself change service provider; a future contract or ordinance would be required to complete any transfer of operation and maintenance responsibilities.