Ridgely officials flag water and sewer shortfall, call for public input on possible rate increase

President Brad Sears said at the April 6 Commissioners meeting that the town’s water and sewer fund is facing a current financial shortfall and that officials are considering a rate increase to stabilize operations. The board moved the water-and-sewer discussion later in the meeting to allow staff to compile numbers and seek public input.

Sears outlined operational pressures including rising contractor costs and equipment expenses; the Director of Operations’ written report (read at the meeting) noted an expected 3–5% increase in grinder pump costs from the previous year and contractor fuel-driven adjustments to paving estimates. Gerald Sutton, the town’s financial assistant, summarized account balances in general and utility funds and reiterated the need for transparent billing and clear descriptions on bill approvals.

Commissioners emphasized that no final decision on new rates was taken April 6 and that the board intends to hold further public engagement before adopting any changes. Sears said the process will include presenting proposed rate structures, the projected revenue shortfall, and anticipated timelines for implementation so residents can comment before a vote.

The meeting materials included a Director of Operations memo reporting potential grant opportunities for sewer line replacement; staff said grant timelines remain uncertain as the state agency (MDE) refines the program. The board asked staff to provide cost models and community-impact descriptions at a future session.

Next steps: commissioners will schedule public input sessions and return with formal rate proposals and financial models; the meeting record notes that the water-and-sewer update was moved within the agenda so residents would be aware and included in the rate-setting discussion.