Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Demorest reviews four options to stabilize water and sewer rates, including a 3% annual increase plan
Summary
The city reviewed EMI's 2026 water and sewer rate study at the Jan. 6 work session. Officials discussed four options ranging from restructuring tiers to applying a 3% annual increase for five years; Councilman Shawn Allen described a cost-of-service allocation as fair. Mayor Harkness asked members to review comparative city data before any vote.
Mark Musselwhite presented EMI's 2026 water and sewer rate study and financial review during the Jan. 6 work session, following up on prior discussion with EMI consultant Fletcher.
EMI laid out four options for rate policy: Alt 1 would revise rate codes and usage tiers while managing expenses; Alt 2 would implement a cost-of-service allocation rate structure; Alt 3 would adjust the existing rate structure based on cost-of-service allocation; and Alt 4 would apply a 3% annual increase for the next five years. Councilman Shawn Allen said Alt 2 is fair and beneficial for customers on tighter budgets. Mayor Jerry Harkness directed council members to review comparative data from other cities before taking any vote.
The transcript records the presentation and initial council reactions but shows no vote or final determination at the Jan. 6 session.
